At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with animals and visitors while delivering educational experiences and tours.
- Company: Join Amazonia Scotland, a vibrant zoo dedicated to wildlife conservation and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, potential for permanent work, and the chance to work in a unique environment.
- Why this job: Perfect for wildlife lovers wanting hands-on experience and to inspire others about animal care.
- Qualifications: Animal science qualification or working towards it; strong communication and teamwork skills required.
- Other info: Seasonal role with irregular hours; must be physically fit and able to work in warm conditions.
Amazonia Scotland is seeking to employ a dedicated zookeeper/education provider within our team, working amongst a variety of taxa, including primates and other mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates, and fish, working to high welfare and husbandry standards.
The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and passionate about wildlife, with the skills required to communicate their knowledge directly to our visitors. They must demonstrate an understanding and knowledge of modern zoo practices in animal husbandry, diets, environmental enrichment, research, conservation, and health and safety practices.
The successful candidate will be required to carry out engaging curriculum-based school tours, animal encounter sessions, birthday parties, keeper talks, and help deliver keeper-for-the-day experiences. The position will also include training on our reception and shop area, operating tills, and general customer care to help cover staff holidays and absences as needed.
This is a seasonal position, on a varied-hour contract up to the end of September, with potential to become a permanent part-time position for the right candidate. Applicants must be willing to work irregular hours including weekends and bank holidays and have suitable transport to and from the site.
Skills required:- Animal science-related qualification (or working towards)
- Motivated individual who can work alone and as part of a team
- Good general knowledge of species housed within Amazonia
- Excellent presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills, as the candidate will be expected to engage with visitors during group bookings and experiences
- A flexible approach to work and the ability to work under pressure
- Reliable, honest, and efficient
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Applicant should be physically fit and able to work in a warm & humid tropical house
- Experience of public speaking
- Full clean driving license
- Experience of working with a range of ages and abilities
Closing date for applications is: midnight Wednesday, 4th June 2025. Interviews will be held the following week, and the position is to commence as soon as possible.
Seasonal zoo 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 Seasonal zoo keeper
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific animals housed at Amazonia Scotland. Understanding their behaviours, diets, and habitats will not only impress during interviews but also help you engage effectively with visitors.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain experience in public speaking or educational roles, as this position requires you to communicate knowledge to a variety of audiences. Consider volunteering for educational programmes or workshops to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former zookeepers and professionals in the field. They can provide insights into the role and may even offer tips on how to stand out in your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by thinking about scenarios where you've demonstrated teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss how you would handle various situations that may arise in a zoo environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal zoo keeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the seasonal zookeeper position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and passion for wildlife.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise any animal science-related qualifications or experiences you have, even if you're still working towards them. Mention specific courses or training that relate to animal husbandry and conservation.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role involves engaging with visitors, demonstrate your excellent verbal and written communication skills in your application. Provide examples of past experiences where you've successfully communicated with diverse audiences.
Demonstrate Flexibility and Reliability: The job requires a flexible approach to work, including irregular hours. In your application, mention your availability and willingness to work weekends and bank holidays, as well as your reliability in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Show Your Passion for Wildlife
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for animals and conservation during the interview. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your dedication to wildlife, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge
Brush up on modern zoo practices, animal husbandry, and the specific species housed at Amazonia. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you are well-prepared and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Engage with Communication Skills
Since the role involves interacting with visitors, practice your presentation and communication skills. Prepare to showcase how you would engage a group during tours or talks, as this is a key part of the job.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility
The position requires working irregular hours, including weekends and bank holidays. Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to the needs of the zoo, which will demonstrate your commitment to the role.