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- Tasks: Lead daily animal care and team supervision at Lotherton Wildlife World.
- Company: Join a respected charity focused on wildlife conservation and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a great pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare and conservation while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in animal care and team management is essential.
- Other info: Applications close on 10th July 2025—don’t miss out!
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
This is a key role at Lotherton Wildlife World—supporting the smooth running of daily operations and helping to ensure the site remains safe, well-managed, and welfare-focused across a diverse animal collection.
As our new Deputy Head Keeper, you’ll work closely with the Head Keeper and Zoo Manager to oversee the day-to-day care and husbandry of Tapir, capybara, callitrichids, fruit bats, penguins and a variety of other bird species. You’ll help lead the animal team, ensuring that welfare standards, routines, and enrichment plans are consistently delivered to a high standard, while also stepping up to lead the team in the Head Keeper’s absence.
You’ll play an important role in coordinating daily briefings, monitoring animal health, contributing to accurate record keeping (including ZIMS), and ensuring that health and safety procedures are followed across all areas. This is a hands-on leadership role that balances animal care with team supervision, offering variety, development, and the opportunity to help shape the future of the collection and its contribution to education and conservation.
As part of the team, you’ll benefit from:
- Access to an excellent Local Government Pension Scheme
- Enhanced pay for weekend, bank holiday, and overtime working
- Generous leave entitlements and flexible working opportunities
- A wide range of staff support networks and development opportunities across our varied services—from wellbeing resources to internal career progression pathways
Deputy Head Keeper employer: BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
Contact Detail:
BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head Keeper
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific animal species mentioned in the job description, such as tapirs and penguins. Understanding their care requirements and behaviours will not only impress during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff at Lotherton Wildlife World or similar establishments. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the team dynamics and expectations for the Deputy Head Keeper role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you handle team supervision. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a team, particularly in high-pressure situations related to animal care.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in animal welfare and conservation practices. Being knowledgeable about current issues in the field will demonstrate your commitment to the role and the organisation's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head Keeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Deputy Head Keeper position. Highlight key skills such as animal husbandry, team leadership, and health and safety procedures in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in animal care and management. Include specific examples of your previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead a team and ensure animal welfare.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for wildlife conservation and your leadership skills. Mention how your experience aligns with the values of Lotherton Wildlife World and your commitment to animal welfare.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Know Your Animals
Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with, such as tapirs, capybaras, and penguins. Understanding their behaviours, dietary needs, and habitat requirements will show your passion and preparedness for the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Head Keeper, you'll need to lead a team. Be ready to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you motivate others, and how you handle conflicts or challenges within a team setting.
✨Highlight Health and Safety Knowledge
Emphasise your understanding of health and safety procedures in a zoo environment. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and promote a safe working environment for both staff and animals.
✨Show Commitment to Welfare and Conservation
Express your dedication to animal welfare and conservation efforts. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to these important values.
