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- Tasks: Care for amazing animals and create unforgettable experiences for guests.
- Company: Join the fun team at Chessington World of Adventures!
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual passes, discounts, and ongoing training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care and conservation while having fun.
- Qualifications: Degree in Animal Science or related field and zoo experience preferred.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a vibrant work environment await you!
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 36400 £ per year.
Chessington World of Adventures
Surrey
Location: Chessington World of Adventures Resort Leatherhead Road Chessington Surrey KT9 2NE
Here at Chessington World of Adventures we are recruiting for a Zoo Keeper to join our team! The successful candidate will work alongside the Zoo Team and take an active role in the day-to-day running of the collection, including delivery of the highest standards of animal husbandry required by species such as Capybara, Asian small-clawed otters, Binturong and a range of primates.
Duties will include planning, evaluating and executing environmental enrichment for the animals under your care, alongside delivering first-class meet and greets and memorable experiences to our Adventurers. You will also be required to use positive reinforcement to train a wide variety of species for husbandry and presentations.
You will be part of a team that creates the most stimulating environment possible – for both animals and guests. Since we’re big on conservation, education and research, you’ll have a big part to play in that too. You will also be keen to support all areas within our zoo, which will in turn benefit your own personal development. You will ensure the health and safety of yourself, colleagues and our guests at all times as well as develop a personal training programme in conjunction with your Head of Section.
Qualifications & Experience
- A degree in Animal Science, Zoology, Biology, or a related field is preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience of working in a zoo environment or equivalent
- Confident communicator and show good initiative
- Passion and excitement for your chosen field, with a keen drive to develop your career as an animal keeper.
- Team player, with a positive, can – do attitude
- Able to stay focused and in control under pressure.
- Adaptability, flexibility and willingness to swap routines at short notice to meet the needs of changing circumstances.
- Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks
- Flexible availability around park hours, including weekends and holidays.
- An annual salary of £26,000
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- ‘Enjoy the Ride’ Merlin Annual Passes – 6 in total per year, 1 for you, plus 5 to gift to loved ones!
- Merlin Magic Pass – 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all of our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
- Company bonus
- 40% discount online off LEGO
- 25% discount in our on-site retail shops and restaurants
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.
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Zoo Keeper (Cover 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 Zoo Keeper (Cover Keeper)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before your interview, spend some time at Chessington World of Adventures. Familiarise yourself with the animals and their habitats. This shows your genuine interest and gives you great talking points during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you’re chatting with the team, let your enthusiasm for animal care shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to animal welfare and conservation.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your skills! If you get the chance, be prepared to showcase your knowledge of animal husbandry or even your training techniques. Practical examples can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
We think you need these skills to ace Zoo Keeper (Cover Keeper)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for animal care shine through! We want to see your excitement for working with animals and how you can contribute to our zoo's mission.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in animal husbandry or zoo environments. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Zoo Keeper role. Share specific examples of your experience and how you plan to make a difference at Chessington.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands 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 specific animals you'll be working with, like Capybaras and Asian small-clawed otters. Being able to discuss their behaviours, habitats, and care requirements will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your previous roles in a zoo environment. Highlight your experience with animal husbandry, training techniques, and any environmental enrichment projects you've been involved in. This will demonstrate your hands-on skills and commitment to animal welfare.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a Zoo Keeper, you'll need to communicate effectively with both your team and guests. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to role-play some scenarios where you explain animal behaviours or lead a meet and greet.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility
Be ready to discuss how you work within a team and adapt to changing circumstances. Share examples of times when you've had to be flexible or take initiative in a fast-paced environment. This will highlight your ability to thrive under pressure and contribute positively to the team.
