At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily site upkeep, repairs, and maintenance at Lotherton Wildlife World.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to inclusivity and sustainability in wildlife conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and enhanced pay for weekends and overtime.
- Why this job: Make a visible impact while working outdoors in a unique environment with diverse responsibilities.
- Qualifications: Practical skills in maintenance and leadership experience are essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to support and train seasonal staff and volunteers.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 42000 £ per year.
This is a key role within Lotherton Wildlife World’s management team—helping to ensure our site remains safe, functional, and fit for purpose across a wide variety of animal enclosures, public areas, and behind-the-scenes spaces.
As our new Zoo Maintenance Supervisor, you’ll take the lead on day-to-day site upkeep, from general repairs and landscaping to machinery maintenance, pest control, and working alongside contractors. A large part of the role will also involve maintaining the zoo’s grounds and gardens—keeping pathways clear, enclosures tidy, and green spaces well-presented for visitors and safe for the animals. Your work will help keep the site looking its best all year round, while supporting welfare and conservation aims.
You’ll coordinate planned maintenance with the Zoo Manager and animal team, helping to ensure minimal disruption to daily operations, and will also support and train seasonal staff, volunteers, and work placements. This is a hands-on, outdoor role that combines practical skills with leadership and offers variety, autonomy, and the chance to make a visible impact every day in one of Leeds’ most unique locations.
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
- Being part of a forward-thinking organisation that champions inclusivity, sustainability, and employee wellbeing
Zoo Maintenance Supervisor 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 Maintenance Supervisor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific maintenance needs of a zoo environment. Research common challenges faced in animal enclosures and public areas, as well as best practices for landscaping and pest control. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the zoo and wildlife conservation sectors. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others who work in similar roles. Building these relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous experience in training or supervising staff. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects, especially in outdoor or maintenance settings, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and animal welfare. Familiarise yourself with Lotherton Wildlife World’s conservation efforts and be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Zoo Maintenance Supervisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Zoo Maintenance Supervisor position. Highlight key skills such as leadership, practical maintenance skills, and experience in outdoor environments.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in maintenance, landscaping, and team coordination. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage tasks effectively and lead a team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for wildlife conservation and your commitment to maintaining safe and functional environments. Mention how your skills align with the zoo's goals and values.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Show Your Practical Skills
As a Zoo Maintenance Supervisor, you'll need to demonstrate your hands-on abilities. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of past maintenance work, repairs, or landscaping projects you've managed. Highlight any relevant experience with machinery and pest control.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
This role involves training and supporting seasonal staff and volunteers. Share your experiences in leading teams or mentoring others. Discuss how you motivate and guide team members to achieve their best work, especially in outdoor settings.
✨Understand the Importance of Animal Welfare
Make sure to convey your understanding of animal welfare and conservation aims. Discuss how your maintenance work contributes to a safe and healthy environment for both animals and visitors. This shows that you align with the zoo's mission.
✨Prepare Questions About Site Management
Demonstrating your interest in the role can set you apart. Prepare thoughtful questions about the zoo's current maintenance challenges, future projects, or how the maintenance team collaborates with other departments. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in the position.