At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in animal care and public engagement at Wingham Wildlife Park.
- Company: Join a passionate wildlife park dedicated to animal welfare and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days holiday, training opportunities, and discounts on food and experiences.
- Other info: Work outdoors, embrace all weather, and enjoy a vibrant work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care while engaging with visitors and leading a team.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of experience with mammals and some team management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 33251 - 33251 £ per year.
Wingham Wildlife Park
Closing date for applications: 19th Jul 2026
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: £33,251.40 PA
Contact: Mr Matthew Jay
The Role
Taking a hands‑on approach to ensuring that animal care is conducted to the high standards we expect on a day‑to‑day basis. Leading a team and supervising all aspects of animal husbandry, and public engagement with duties including but not limited to:
- Managing all areas of animal husbandry within the Mammal section when the Head of Mammals is not present and making decisions/changes to ensure the smooth operation of the section.
- Liaising with the Head of Mammals and Head Keeper to ensure that diets are prepared and given out correctly.
- Assisting the Head of Mammals and Head of Training with implementing training plans within the department and ensuring that all staff are following these procedures correctly.
- Ensuring correct medication is given to animals and liaising with the Head Keeper/Head of Mammals if any concerns.
- Ensuring enclosure security and reporting any concerns immediately.
- Communicating with the Head Keeper any stock that needs ordering, including dry stock and fresh produce.
In addition, you will also:
- Report directly to the Head Keeper, Curator and Directors when the Head of Mammals is not present.
- Train and develop a team of up to 7 keepers under your supervision.
- Assist the Head Keeper and Head of Mammals with conducting performance reviews of staff and suggest improvements.
- Supervise apprentices, volunteers and interns when on section, including during the interview process.
- Engage with visitors and develop public keeper talks.
- Ensure all paperwork is kept up to date and correctly filled in.
- Assist to plan how the section is run with the Head of Mammals and Head Keeper.
- Attend the daily end of day meeting.
What You Need To Be Considered For The Role
- Proven experience working with mammals in a zoological setting for at least 2 years.
- Some experience managing a team of people, preferably 1 year or more.
- Be a team player with the ability to motivate your team whilst under pressure.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Some IT skills with a working knowledge of Zims is desirable (however full training will be given).
Benefits
- Permanent Contract
- 28 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- In house training, plus access to an extensive training budget covering external workshops, conferences, symposia, and online courses
- Free staff parking
- Free entrance to the zoo on your days off plus 5 complimentary day tickets per year.
- Uniform
- 30% staff food discount
- 40% staff drinks & snacks discount
- 20% animal experiences discount
- 10% gift shop discount
This full‑time position (45 hours per week) requires people to be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions. This position also requires people to be able to work on weekends, during school holidays and on bank holidays.
Deputy Head of Mammals in London employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Wingham Wildlife Park is an exceptional employer that prioritises animal care and employee development in a vibrant, outdoor setting. With a strong commitment to training and growth, staff enjoy a supportive work culture, generous benefits including 28 days of holiday, and unique perks such as free zoo access and discounts on food and experiences. Join us in making a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation while working alongside a passionate team dedicated to excellence.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Mammals in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Mammals in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
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How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
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