At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for amazing animals like giraffes, tigers, and meerkats while ensuring their well-being.
- Company: Join Twycross Zoo, a leader in animal conservation and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days of annual leave, free zoo entry, and discounts on food and gifts.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for recognition and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care and connect with wildlife every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with mammals in a zoo and a passion for animal welfare.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 29000 € per year.
Twycross Zoo East Midlands is seeking an Animal Keeper for a 12-month contract. The closing date for applications is 12th Mar 2026.
As an Animal Keeper, you’ll play a key role in caring for the animals in our mammals section, which includes large and small hoofstock, carnivores, and small mammals (for example: Giraffes, Rhinos, Meerkats, Tigers, Snow Leopard, Goats, Capybara). You will help to ensure that animal keeping is carried out to the Zoo’s required standards, with duties that will include although not be limited to:
- Preparing and distributing food and water to animals
- Learning about the animals and reporting any animal health concerns to the Team Leader
- Assisting with maintaining enclosures and public viewing areas ensuring a high standard of hygiene, cleanliness, and exhibition
- Answering enquiries from the public in a helpful and polite manner, delivering encounters and assisting with visitor events
Our Requirements - Animal Keeper
- Experience as an Animal Keeper in a zoo environment, which must have included working with category one mammals
- Superb knowledge of animals that will be within your regular care and all responsible work practices relevant to zoonotic diseases
- A passion for Twycross Zoo’s work and purpose
- Self-motivated and with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
- A flexible approach to duties and working hours
- Physically fit due to the nature and demands of the role
- Although not essential, an appropriate animal-related qualification would be highly advantageous
Working on average 5 days out of 7 on a three-week rolling rota between the hours of 8am to 5pm during the summer and 8am to 4pm during the winter months.
Benefits
- 31 days annual leave, including bank holidays
- Life assurance
- Company sick pay from day one of absence, once successfully completed probation period
- Access to discount platform
- Staff membership card giving you free entry to the zoo on your days off
- Complimentary Twycross Zoo ticket allowance for friends and family
- Discount in the Twycross Zoo gift shop
- Discount in Twycross Zoo food and beverage outlets
- Monthly recognition award scheme
- Access to employee assistance services
- Free parking
Apply For This Job
Please submit your CV and a covering letter to human.resources@twycrosszoo.org. Applications will be reviewed and the vacancy will close once the role is filled.
Animal Keeper Mammals (12 month contract) employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Twycross Zoo is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant conservation environment where your passion for animal care can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we provide generous benefits such as 31 days of annual leave, life assurance, and free zoo entry for staff and their families. Our supportive work culture fosters personal growth and recognition, making it a rewarding place to develop your career in animal husbandry.
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Keeper Mammals (12 month contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Twycross Zoo inside out! Familiarise yourself with their mission, the animals they care for, and any recent news. This will help you stand out in interviews and show your genuine passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As an Animal Keeper, you might be tested on your animal handling skills or knowledge of animal care. Brush up on your techniques and be ready to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your application! A quick email to express your continued interest can keep you on their radar. Just remember to be polite and professional – it shows you're keen and proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Keeper Mammals (12 month contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for animals and conservation shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and Twycross Zoo’s mission!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially with category one mammals. We’re looking for specific examples of your work as an Animal Keeper, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention your knowledge of animal care and any qualifications you have that relate to the job.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It makes the process smoother for both you and us, and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Animals
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of the mammals you'll be caring for. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, diets, and any specific health concerns. This will show your passion for animal care and your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience as an Animal Keeper, especially with category one mammals. Prepare specific examples of your responsibilities and how you ensured high standards of care and hygiene in your past roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in a zoo environment, as teamwork is crucial in ensuring the well-being of the animals.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about Twycross Zoo’s conservation efforts and the specific challenges faced in the mammals section. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation's mission.
