At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with animal care, site maintenance, and visitor support in a vibrant zoo environment.
- Company: Hertfordshire Zoo, a dedicated and passionate team focused on animal welfare.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, learn new skills, and contribute to wildlife conservation.
- Other info: A unique opportunity to work in a dynamic setting with diverse animals.
- Why this job: Perfect for animal lovers wanting to make a difference while having fun!
- Qualifications: Must be 16+ and committed to volunteering regularly.
Volunteer Zookeeper Assistants – Hertfordshire Zoo
Hertfordshire Zoo
Closing date for applications is: 30th Sep 2025
Volunteer Zookeeper Assistants – Hertfordshire Zoo
Do you have a passion for animals and want to gain hands-on experience in a busy Zoo environment? Hertfordshire Zoo is looking for dedicated Volunteer Zookeeper Assistants to join our team.
What’s involved?
This is a practical, physical role where no two days are the same. Duties can include:
- Animal care – cleaning enclosures (with and without animals present), refreshing water, disinfecting enrichment items, preparing feeds, assisting with deliveries, and sometimes helping with feeding and enrichment activities.
- Site care – weeding, painting, sweeping, raking, rubbish disposal, and cleaning/tidying staff areas such as the feed room and hay/straw barn.
- Visitor support – manning walk-through exhibits, assisting with keeper talks, and helping with shows/displays.
What we’re looking for:
Volunteers aged 18+ (or 16+ if currently enrolled on an animal-related course).
Commitment to at least one full day (8am–4pm) every two weeks – ideally one day each week.
A long-term commitment, with enthusiasm to learn new skills and information.
Reliability, dedication, and a willingness to get stuck into hard, sometimes messy work.
Please note:
A large proportion of the role involves cleaning, often without animals present.
Volunteers do not usually work directly with primates or large carnivores.
You must be able to make your own way to the Zoo, as there is no public transport to our site.
How to apply
If you’d like to join our team and help support the running of Hertfordshire Zoo, please get in touch with us to request an application form.
BIAZA\'s office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Contact outside of those times will get a response when we are next in the office.
If your enquiry is urgent and you need a response before the BIAZA office reopens, please call Jo Judge on 07593 580602. If you wish to reach one of our members, please contact them directly.
The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales number 6789783. Registered Office Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY. Registered Charity Number is 1128168 and SC040783 (Scotland).
Volunteer Zookeeper Assistants – Hertfordshire Zoo employer: BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
Hertfordshire Zoo is an exceptional employer for those passionate about animal care, offering a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a vibrant zoo environment. Our supportive work culture fosters learning and growth, with dedicated volunteers playing a vital role in animal and site care while engaging with visitors. Located in a picturesque setting, we provide a fulfilling volunteer experience that not only enhances your skills but also contributes to the well-being of our animals and the enjoyment of our guests.
Contact Detail:
BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Zookeeper Assistants – Hertfordshire Zoo
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before applying, visit Hertfordshire Zoo if you can. Familiarising yourself with the environment and the animals will not only show your genuine interest but also give you a leg up in conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current volunteers or staff at the zoo through social media or local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with the team, share your love for animals and any relevant experiences. Whether it’s caring for pets or volunteering elsewhere, let them see your enthusiasm shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and what we’re looking for in a volunteer.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Zookeeper Assistants – Hertfordshire Zoo
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animals:When writing your application, let your love for animals shine through! Share any relevant experiences or courses you've taken that show your commitment to animal care and welfare.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Make sure to mention your availability in your application. We’re looking for volunteers who can commit to at least one full day every two weeks, so being upfront about your schedule will help us a lot!
Highlight Your Reliability:We value dedication and reliability, so don’t forget to include examples of how you’ve shown these traits in past roles or experiences. It’ll help us see you as a dependable team member!
Apply Through Our Website:To make things easier for both of us, please apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place and is processed quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Know Your Animals
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of the animals at Hertfordshire Zoo. Familiarise yourself with their habitats, diets, and behaviours. This shows your passion for animal care and will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Commitment
Be ready to discuss your availability and commitment to volunteering. Highlight your willingness to work hard and get stuck in, even with the less glamorous tasks like cleaning. This role requires dedication, so make sure they know you’re all in!
✨Ask Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the zoo. This not only shows your interest but also helps you understand what’s expected. Ask about the types of enrichment activities you might assist with or how the team supports each other.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Share examples from past experiences where you collaborated with others, especially in physically demanding situations. The zoo environment thrives on teamwork, so let them see you as a great fit!
