Animal Keeper (Herptiles and Nocturnal Mammals)

Northumberland Zoo is a major animal attraction and wildlife conservation centre in the Northeast of England. We are a family-run, not-for-profit zoo looking for a like-minded team player to join our mission in conservation, education & sustainability to inspire positive change.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Animal Keeper to join our team with a focus on herptiles and nocturnal mammals on our Twilight Section. This includes fruit bats, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, naked mole rats, Vositse and other nocturnal mammals. The animal department is currently split into 7 sections, and this role will also have the opportunity to work on other sections, dependent on experience.

You will work alongside the animal team to ensure the highest possible standards of animal husbandry, including behavioural and environmental enrichment and animal training programmes. You will be responsible for the development of animal exhibits to promote natural behaviour and top-quality presentation, as well as educational opportunities for zoo visitors in line with the zoo’s missions of conservation, education and sustainability.

• Day-to-day husbandry routines for various species including health and welfare monitoring, with a focus on the Twilight Section.
• Researching and implementing behavioural and environmental enrichment opportunities for various species.
• Refurbishing and maintaining exhibits with species-specific suitability in mind to promote natural behaviour and ensuring high standards of presentation for zoo visitors.
• Strict adherence to risk assessments, bio security and safe working practices.
• Taking ownership for the presentation of the wider zoo site by maintaining high standards of presentation with a positive attitude and professional manner.
• Carrying out animal experiences, talks, displays and occasionally assisting the education department in planning and carrying out education sessions to school groups and visitors ensuring the zoo's mission messages are being delivered.

• At least 2 years professional zoo work experience working with animals, including herptiles, in a zoo environment.
• Be qualified in an appropriate captive wild animal husbandry, biological or conservation discipline.
• Must have high animal welfare standards with regards to the care and daily husbandry routines.
• Experience implementing animal enrichment programmes with behavioural output in mind.
• Have great observational skills when working with the animals in the park, understanding animal behaviour and the ability to keep accurate records relating to animal welfare.
• Be confident in presenting engaging, educational messages to audiences.

• Full driver's licence and access to vehicle required due to rural setting of zoo.
• Have great team working and communication skills and adaptability to suit the needs of the role.
• Be able to work effectively and with minimum supervision within a timely manner.
• Have strong interpersonal skills and be confident to interact with the public.
• Be physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weathers.
• Take responsibility for own personal development, seeking out opportunities to learn new skills.

40 hrs per week across 5 days, includes weekends and bank holidays. 28 days holiday per annum (includes Bank Holidays) increasing by 1 day each year after 12 months employment to a maximum of 33 days. Enrolment in pension scheme with employer contributions of 3%. £5 daily food allowance in the zoo café and discount in zoo shop. Complimentary Zoo admission tickets for family and friends.