Animal Keeper (Full-Time)

Join to apply for the Animal Keeper (Full-Time) role at Battersea Park Children's Zoo. Closing date for applications is: 7th Jul 2025. Contact: Jamie Baker (jamie@batterseaparkzoo.co.uk). Salary: £25,396.80 per annum.

About Us

Founded in 1951, Battersea Park Children's Zoo is a well-established and expanding family-run business and one of two conservation-based zoos within our company. We strive for the highest standards in animal husbandry, conservation and education, whilst also being long-standing members of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA). Our mission is to promote and achieve the conservation of animals and their habitats through engagement and interaction with our visitors, particularly children.

Overview Of Role

Our keeper team is expanding! We are looking for a candidate with a positive, fresh outlook and someone that can bring enthusiasm, new ideas and progressive working practices to the position. The successful candidate will be expected to maintain the highest and current standards of animal welfare and husbandry, completing daily checks and records of animals within our care. This position welcomes new ideas, which can be discussed with the Zoo Manager and the Curator of Animals. Working hours are 40hrs per week on a roster including weekends and Bank Holidays. A flexible attitude to working hours is required. The role is physically demanding, and the candidate should enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions.

Main Duties

• Reporting directly to the Zoo Manager and Senior Animal Keeper.
• Assisting with the cleaning of all areas within the zoo.
• Assisting with enclosure/paddock servicing, maintenance and refurbishment.
• A good working knowledge of current zoo diets for a range of species, carrying out the correct feeding protocols and preparation of approved diets, nutrition and enrichment.
• Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are always adhered to.
• Assisting where appropriate with the movement and/or training of animals as directed by senior staff.
• You will be expected to carry out educational keeper experiences and private tours.
• Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors.
• Reporting defects and repairs required to the Zoo Manager or more senior staff.
• Assisting in various projects related to animal management as directed by senior animal management staff.
• CPD/training in relation to keeper husbandry, best practice and all aspects of zoo welfare and licensing to implement the standards required will be required.

Candidate Specification

• Paid employment within a zoological related position required.
• Proven practical experience of animal management with a range of domestic and exotic species.
• Broad taxonomic knowledge of a range of species managed within zoological collections.
• Willingness to work on and learn about evolving husbandry management within zoological collections.
• Knowledge of techniques used to handle specific animals e.g. catch ups for veterinary procedures.
• Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department.
• Attention to detail and a tidy/organised outlook on the working environment is essential.

Please Note: Accommodation is not provided on site. London public transport is a viable option. No telephone or virtual interviews; interviews will be held at the zoo. Candidates selected for interview will be expected to attend a combined interview and trial day at the zoo.

Apply For This Job: Applicants should send their C.V., application form and covering letter detailing relevant experience, skills and why they are applying for this position and details of availability.