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- Tasks: Care for giraffes and other hoof-stock species while ensuring their health and welfare.
- Company: Chester Zoo, a leading wildlife charity dedicated to conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days leave, staff pass, healthcare plan, and discounts.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real impact in wildlife conservation.
- Qualifications: HND or degree in zoological science and experience with hoof-stock species.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, excellent training, and career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 22600 - 26500 ÂŁ per year.
3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Chester Zoo
North West
Closing date for applications is: 22nd Oct 2025
Contact: Alex McGinn (recruitment@chesterzoo.org) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: ÂŁ26,500 per annum
The Role
This is a key role working as part of our professional team based on the Giraffe Section. For the right candidate, this post offers a fantastic opportunity to work with a variety of hoof‑stock species including, but not limited to, Nubian giraffe, Warthog, Zebra, Babirusa and Okapi. Following the opening of Heart of Africa in spring 2025, the successful applicant will support the team and play an integral part of the new mixed‑species and reserve exhibit.
As a Keeper On The Giraffe Team, You Will
- Be responsible for maintaining excellent husbandry, health and welfare of a wide variety of hoof‑stock species.
- Be responsible for ensuring habitats and facilities are maintained to the highest possible standard.
- Have self‑motivation to work independently, but also embrace working as part of a large, diverse, highly motivated team.
- Assist with the training and handling of animals, assisting veterinary staff with procedures and administering medication with relevant after‑care.
- Have the ability to deliver memorable and informative guest experiences.
The Package
- Permanent full‑time position.
- 40hrs per week, worked on a rota basis including weekends and bank holidays.
- Salary ÂŁ26,500 per annum.
- 33 days annual leave per year (pro rata).
- Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends.
- Access to healthcare plan.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks.
- Pension scheme with generous employer contributions of up to 9%.
- Excellent training and career progression opportunities.
Our Requirements
- A HND or degree‑level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in the care and management of a variety of hoof‑stock species in a zoo or safari park setting, as well as the highest standards of enclosure management.
- Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Flexibility to accommodate different shift patterns for at least 6 months of the year.
- Experience of working within strict Safe Working Practices.
- Driving licence.
Although Not Essential, The Following Would Be Desirable
- Experience working with mixed‑species exhibits.
- Aptitude to deliver comprehensive and informative giraffe experiences.
- Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role to maintain accurate records.
Closing date for applications is Tuesday 22nd October 2025
Please be aware we reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date if we have received a high level of applications. We would recommend that if you do wish to be considered that you complete the application as promptly as possible as shortlisting and interviews may be taking place whilst the advert is live.
More About Us
We are not just an amazing, award‑winning visitor attraction that’s home to 30,000 incredible animals. We are not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We are a major wildlife charity that is committed to the recovery of endangered species globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo, and we prevent extinction.
Apply For This Job
Via Chester Zoo website
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Keeper - Giraffes employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Keeper - Giraffes
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Chester Zoo! Familiarise yourself with their mission and values. When you walk into that interview, show them you’re not just another candidate but someone who genuinely cares about wildlife conservation.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your animal handling skills! If you’ve got experience with hoof-stock species, be ready to share specific examples. We want to hear about your hands-on experience and how you’ve ensured the health and welfare of animals in your care.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork spirit! This role is all about collaboration, so think of times when you’ve worked well in a team. Highlight your ability to motivate others and contribute positively to a diverse group.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the Giraffe Section or the new Heart of Africa exhibit. It shows you’re engaged and excited about the opportunity. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Keeper - Giraffes
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 you have with hoof-stock species and why you’re excited about the role at Chester Zoo.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your qualifications and experiences that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team and what unique skills you bring!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. The sooner you apply through our website, the better your chances are of being considered. We might close the vacancy early if we get a lot of applications!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Giraffes
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about giraffes and other hoof-stock species. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, habitats, and any recent news related to conservation efforts. This will show your passion for animal care and your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience with hoof-stock species in detail. Prepare specific examples of how you've maintained high standards of husbandry and enclosure management. Highlight any training or handling experiences that demonstrate your skills and dedication.
✨Team Player Mindset
Since this role involves working as part of a diverse team, be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles, especially in challenging situations. Emphasise your ability to motivate yourself while also supporting your colleagues.
✨Engage with Guest Experiences
Think about how you can create memorable experiences for zoo visitors. Prepare ideas or examples of how you've previously engaged guests or educated them about animals. This will show that you understand the importance of guest interaction in a zoo setting.
