At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for big cats, ensuring their health and happiness while engaging with visitors.
- Company: Join Wildheart Animal Sanctuary on the stunning Isle of Wight.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and a chance to work with amazing wildlife.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for growth in a passionate team dedicated to wildlife rescue.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare and create unforgettable experiences for visitors.
- Qualifications: 2 years in a public-facing role and 1 year in animal care, especially with big cats.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 € per year.
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary – Isle of Wight
Closing date for applications: 15th Mar 2026.
Contact: Marc Fox.
Sector: Animal Care. Type: Paid. Contract: Full‑time. Salary: Competitive & dependent on experience.
Come and join our passionate team specialising in wild animal rescue and rehabilitation, on the Jurassic coast holiday island! We are looking for a primary big cat carer to take a lead on running the big cat section, at an exciting time of positive development. Full-time (average 40‑hour week, including weekend cover).
Responsibilities
- Undertake daily animal husbandry tasks including feed preparation & feeding, cleaning, training and enrichment.
- Undertake and record animal observations.
- Report welfare, behavioural or veterinary concerns to Animal Manager.
- Keep all areas, including storage and off show areas to a high standard of hygiene and tidiness.
- Keep animal habitats and surrounding areas maintained to a high standard of presentation and enhancement for the animals.
- Report any maintenance or wear and tear to Animal Manager.
- Assist where instructed with pest control.
- Assist in department projects as required.
- Undertake unique animal experiences with visitors ensuring that they receive a once-in-a-lifetime encounter whilst adhering to sanctuary guidelines ensuring good animal welfare and the safety of participants.
- Participate in education, media and marketing initiatives as required.
- Engage with visitors informally during course of duties & formally through talks.
Qualifications
- Must have minimum 2 years’ experience in a public facing role and 1-year full time, paid animal care experience.
- Experience of working with big cats essential.
- Full UK driving licence required.
- Potential for upgrading for the right candidate based on experience.
How to apply
Email with CV & cover letter. Applicants may be invited for interview before the closing date.
Animal Carer- Big cats in London employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is an exceptional employer located on the stunning Isle of Wight, offering a unique opportunity to work with big cats in a supportive and passionate environment. Our team is dedicated to animal welfare and rehabilitation, providing employees with meaningful work, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to engage with visitors in unforgettable experiences. Join us in making a difference while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Jurassic coast.
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 Carer- Big cats in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the sanctuary! Research Wildheart Animal Sanctuary and their mission. Understanding their values and goals will help you connect with the team during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your experience! Be ready to share specific examples of your work with big cats. Highlight any unique situations where you made a difference in animal care or visitor experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to animal care and welfare. Role-play with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our passionate team at Wildheart.
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Carer- Big cats in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for animal care and big cats shine through. We want to see why you’re excited about joining our team at Wildheart Animal Sanctuary!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience, especially with big cats. We’re looking for specific examples of your animal care skills, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Professional but Personal:While we love a friendly tone, remember to keep it professional. Address your application to Marc Fox and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to join our modern sanctuary!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Big Cats
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge about big cats and their behaviours. Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with at the sanctuary. This will not only impress the interviewers but also show your genuine passion for animal care.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous roles in animal care, especially any hands-on experience with big cats. Prepare specific examples of your responsibilities and achievements, such as successful training techniques or enrichment activities you've implemented.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves engaging with visitors and educating them about the animals, practice how you would explain complex concepts in a simple way. Think of ways to make your interactions memorable and informative, showcasing your ability to connect with people.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the sanctuary's approach to animal welfare, ongoing projects, or future developments. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to the sanctuary's mission and growth.
