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- Tasks: Care for over 70 species and ensure their wellbeing in a vibrant zoo environment.
- Company: Tilgate Zoo, a top tourist attraction with a passionate team.
- Benefits: Generous employee benefits, discounts, and wellbeing incentives.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real difference in animal conservation.
- Qualifications: Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals or equivalent preferred.
- Other info: Weekend work required; excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
Tilgate Zoo
South East Closing date for applications is: 20th Oct 2025
We have an exciting opportunity for a zookeeper at Tilgate Zoo where we are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate individual to join our team.
Tilgate Park is a top tourist attraction having been inducted into the Trip Advisor Hall of Fame. The park, of which the zoo is one element, receives upwards of 750,000 visitors per year.
As part of a dynamic team caring for a collection of over 70 species (mammals, birds and ectotherms) you will be involved in all aspects of the zoo operation, from visitor experience and enclosure design, through to animal welfare and conservation.
You will be a highly motivated and knowledgeable individual who ideally holds a Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or equivalent qualification.
As a small collection, you will be working with a range of domestic and exotic species (including farm stock, ring-tailed lemur, Andean condor, serval, Madagascan boa, naked mole rat) in supporting the highest standards of animal husbandry.
Your roles and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, all aspects of animal husbandry, enclosure and site maintenance whilst upholding the highest standards of health and safety.
You will work as part of a small team of dedicated colleagues reporting to the Senior Zookeeper and Zoo Manager.
The post includes weekend work, though a working pattern that will be discussed at interview.
For all posts, evening, weekend, Bank Holidays and ‘rest day’ working may be required to cover essential services, for which you will be paid a 14% enhancement.
A full and current UK driving licence will be a requirement of the role.
Satisfactory clearance of a Basic Disclosure and Barring Check (DBS) will be a condition of your employment.
Employee benefits
We offer a generous employeebenefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.
Our way of working
Our sharedvalues and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match.
Apply for this job:
Complete your application online by following the link:
Please ensure that the reference details you supply are for your current or most recent employer and that any gaps in employment are covered on your application form. Please note that CVs will not be accepted without a fully completed application form.
We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible, as we may close this advert before the stated closing date if enough applications are received.
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Zookeeper 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 Zookeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before your interview, spend some time at Tilgate Zoo. Familiarise yourself with the animals and their habitats. This shows your passion and commitment, plus it gives you great talking points during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current zookeepers or staff at Tilgate Zoo on social media. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have. This insider knowledge can really help you stand out in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! During the interview, be ready to discuss specific examples of your animal husbandry experience. Whether it's caring for exotic species or managing enclosures, we want to hear how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure you complete your application online as soon as possible. We might close the advert early if we get enough applications, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Zookeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to learn about Tilgate Zoo and our values. Understanding our mission and the role of a zookeeper will help you tailor your application to show how you fit into our team.
Be Specific: When filling out your application form, be as specific as possible about your experience with animal husbandry and any relevant qualifications. Highlight your passion for wildlife and conservation to make your application stand out!
Cover Those Gaps: Make sure to address any gaps in your employment history on the application form. We appreciate honesty and clarity, so don’t leave us guessing—explain what you were up to during those times.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We might close the advert early if we get enough applications, so get yours in as soon as you can through our website to ensure you don’t miss out.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums)
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on the species you'll be working with, especially the unique ones like the ring-tailed lemur and Madagascan boa. Being able to discuss their care, habitat needs, and conservation status will show your passion and knowledge.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be part of a small team, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked in a team, especially in high-pressure situations or during animal care tasks.
✨Highlight Your Qualifications
If you have a Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or any relevant qualifications, make sure to mention them. Discuss how your education has prepared you for the responsibilities of the role, particularly in animal husbandry and health and safety standards.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios. Think about how you would handle specific situations, like an animal's health emergency or a visitor interaction, and be prepared to explain your thought process.
