At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the care and enrichment of our amazing Asian elephants at Blackpool Zoo.
- Company: Join Blackpool Zoo, a leader in animal care and conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to work with incredible animals.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to animal welfare and conservation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while working in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Three years' experience in zoology and knowledge of elephant care required.
The predicted salary is between 28016 - 28016 £ per year.
Blackpool Zoo is one of the UK’s most established zoos and is operated by Parques Reunidos, one of the leading, fastest‑growing leisure park operators in the world. With 50 years’ experience, it owns and operates over 30 leisure centres across Europe and Australia.
We are committed to excellence in animal care, welfare, and conservation and are now seeking an experienced and motivated Keeper to join our established Elephant Team, supporting the daily care, welfare, and progressive husbandry of our Asian elephant herd, with occasional responsibilities across the wider Mammal Department.
This is a key position within a highly regarded team, working within our purpose‑built facility, Project Elephant Basecamp, completed in 2018. The facility is currently home to seven Asian elephants, after the recent successful birth of our first calf born in 2025. All animals are managed under protected contact management systems in line with current best practice.
You will play an active role in delivering high standards of husbandry, contributing to behavioural management and welfare programmes, and supporting the continued development of positive reinforcement training strategies. While the primary focus is on elephants, flexibility to assist across a range of mammal species is essential.
We are looking for a professional and committed individual who can demonstrate:
- A strong track record within a modern zoological environment
- Sound knowledge of current husbandry, welfare, and enrichment principles
- Practical experience using positive reinforcement training techniques
- The ability to work safely, collaboratively, and proactively within a team
You will be physically fit, reliable, and highly motivated, with a positive and adaptable approach to your work.
Essential Requirements
- Minimum of three years’ experience in a relevant zoological role
- Demonstrable experience working with elephants in a protected contact environment
- Experience supervising or supporting team members
- DMZAA or equivalent qualification
- Full UK driving licence
Desirable Experience
- Experience working with a range of Category 1 species
- Familiarity with EAZA, BIAZA, and DEFRA standards and guidelines
- Full clean driving licence and previous experience driving/operating a variety of plant machinery
Closing date: 7th of June 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early should a suitable candidate be identified. Early application is therefore encouraged.
Please submit a detailed CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role to Leah Lancashire, Personnel Manager. Blackpool Zoo, East Park Drive, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY3 8PP.
If you have not received a response within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. Due to the volume of applications, feedback will only be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Senior Elephant Keeper: Enrichment & Welfare Lead in London employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Blackpool Zoo is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to animal care and welfare. With a strong commitment to conservation and employee development, staff enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters growth and innovation. Located in the vibrant North West, employees benefit from being part of a leading leisure park operator, ensuring a rewarding and meaningful career in animal care.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Elephant Keeper: Enrichment & Welfare Lead in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team at Blackpool Zoo! Reach out on social media or attend any open days. Building a connection can give you an edge and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of elephant care and welfare practices. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with positive reinforcement training techniques—this is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for animal welfare during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to animal enrichment and welfare in your previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and serious about joining the team at Blackpool Zoo.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Elephant Keeper: Enrichment & Welfare Lead in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Elephant Keeper role. Highlight your experience with elephants and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our commitment to animal care and welfare!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working with elephants and how your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your previous roles; showcase your achievements! Talk about specific instances where you’ve used positive reinforcement training or contributed to animal welfare programmes. We’re looking for real examples that demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Early!:Since we review applications on a rolling basis, don’t wait until the last minute to apply! Get your application in early through our website to increase your chances of standing out. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Elephants
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Asian elephants and their care. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, dietary needs, and enrichment activities. This will show your passion for the role and your commitment to animal welfare.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience with elephants and positive reinforcement training techniques. Be ready to discuss how you've contributed to animal welfare and team dynamics in previous positions.
✨Understand the Zoo's Values
Research Blackpool Zoo and its mission regarding animal care and conservation. Align your answers with their values during the interview to demonstrate that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the organisation’s culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the elephant team, ongoing projects, or future initiatives at the zoo. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the role aligns with your career goals.
