At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead our animal care team and manage daily zoo operations.
- Company: Ponderosa Zoo, a passionate and dedicated team in West Yorkshire.
- Benefits: Full-time role with seasonal hours and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with diverse animal care and leadership responsibilities.
- Why this job: Join us for an exciting opportunity to shape the future of our zoo.
- Qualifications: 2 years zoo experience and Level 3 qualification in an animal-related subject.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Ponderosa Zoo
West Yorkshire. Closing date for applications is 12th Jul 2026.
Contact: Amy Armitage ( ). Sector: Education. Type: Paid Contract. Full‑time. Salary: TBC.
Deputy Zoo Manager
We're looking for a passionate, motivated, and experienced individual to help lead our animal care team while supporting the day‑to‑day management of the zoo.
This role combines hands‑on animal care with leadership and administrative responsibilities.
The Role
As Deputy Zoo Manager, you will divide your time between working directly with our animals and supporting the operational management of the zoo.
- 3 days per week working on section alongside the animal care team.
- 2 days per week based in the office, supporting management, administration, planning, compliance, and team leadership.
- Working Hours
This is a full‑time position with seasonal working hours.
- Autumn & Winter: 37.5 hours per week
- Spring & Summer: 39.5 hours per week
Weekend and bank holiday working will be required as part of a rota.
Essential Requirements
- A minimum of 2 years experience working within a zoo.
- A minimum Level 3 qualification in an animal‑related subject (or an equivalent recognised qualification).
- A genuine passion for animal welfare and maintaining the highest standards of husbandry.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
- The ability to motivate and support a team in a fast‑paced environment.
- A proactive approach with confidence in both practical animal care and administrative responsibilities.
- A commitment to health and safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting the Zoo Manager with the daily operation of the zoo.
- Leading, mentoring, and supervising the animal care team.
- Maintaining exceptional standards of animal welfare and husbandry.
- Assisting with staff training, development, and performance.
- Completing administrative tasks, record keeping, and compliance documentation.
- Helping to plan workloads, manage resources, and contribute to the ongoing development of the animal collection.
- Working collaboratively to deliver an outstanding experience for both animals and visitors.
Why Join Us?
This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a dedicated and passionate team where no two days are the same.
You'll have the chance to make a real impact on the future of our zoo, contribute to the care of a diverse animal collection, and help shape the development of both our team and our organization.
Apply For This Job
If you are excited by this opportunity and believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are interested in the role to
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed.
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Deputy Zoo Manager in London employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling role as a Storesperson at the iconic Edinburgh Zoo. With a strong commitment to wildlife conservation, RZSS fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing through generous benefits such as a competitive salary, extensive annual leave, and access to a healthcare plan. Employees also enjoy unique perks like free entry to both the Highland Wildlife Park and Edinburgh Zoo, making it a rewarding place to grow professionally while contributing to a meaningful mission.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
