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- Tasks: Care for animals, engage guests, and maintain enclosures in a fun zoo environment.
- Company: Folly Farm, a vibrant zoo in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full-time hours, and a chance to work with amazing animals.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create magical moments for guests while learning on the job.
- Qualifications: 1+ years of zoo experience and a degree in Zoology or related field.
- Other info: Weekend work required; great opportunity for hands-on animal care experience.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Folly Farm Pembrokeshire, Wales
Closing date for applications is: 29th Mar 2026
Contact: Kate Torok (Kate.Torok@folly-farm.co.uk)
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive rates of pay
We’re looking for a versatile and enthusiastic person, with practical zoo experience to join our zoo team to cover maternity leave. This is a 12 month contract, working approximately 40 hours per week commencing May/June 2026. Please note due to the nature of the business weekend work will be required, including bank holidays.
Duties
- Undertaking the cleaning and feeding regimes for the allocated section(s) working to set operating procedures to deliver the highest levels of animal husbandry.
- Providing exceptional guest service and engagement, delivering fun, educational feeding experiences and talks.
- Maintaining the enclosures to a high standard undertaking general tasks including weeding, planting, re-branching and grass cutting.
- Chaperoning our work experience candidates and students as part of our educational programme.
- Working independently, with the ability to use your initiative, and as part of a diverse team.
Who We’re Looking For…
As part of our team, you’ll need to have a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude, be adaptable and willing to learn. You’ll need to be driven to deliver our mission to exceed guests’ expectations, creating magical moments for our guests to treasure and always looking to the future. Experience of working with a range of species is advantageous.
Our Ideal Candidate Will
- Have practical experience; a minimum of 1 years’ experience within a similar setting
- Qualifications to degree level in Zoology or a related field
- Have experience driving agricultural machinery/range of vehicles
- Be hardworking, reliable and a team player
- Hold a full driving licence valid in the UK
- Excellent communication and team work skills are essential
Apply For This Job
To apply for this position please go to www.folly-farm.co.uk/jobs/current-vacancies Click apply now to complete the application form and attach your CV highlighting your experience and skills, including why you should be considered for this role.
Maternity Cover Keeper (12 month contract) 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 Maternity Cover Keeper (12 month contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Folly Farm and its staff. This will help you connect with them during your chat and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their zoo family.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your practical skills! Since this role is all about hands-on animal care, be ready to discuss your previous experience with animals. Bring examples of how you've tackled challenges in similar settings to impress them.
✨Tip Number 3
Be enthusiastic! Your positive attitude can set you apart from other candidates. Make sure to express your passion for animal care and your eagerness to create magical moments for guests during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We recommend using the official Folly Farm site to submit your application. It shows you're serious about the position and makes it easier for us to find your details when we’re reviewing candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Maternity Cover Keeper (12 month contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your practical zoo experience in your CV. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing those relevant skills and experiences!
Tailor Your Application: When you’re filling out the application form, tailor your responses to match the job description. Use keywords from the listing to show us you understand what we’re looking for and how you fit the bill.
Be Yourself: We love a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude! Let your personality shine through in your application. Share why you’re passionate about animal care and what makes you excited about this role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it’s super easy – just click apply now and follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the species you'll be working with. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, diets, and habitats. This will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for animal care.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your practical zoo experience in detail. Think of specific examples where you've demonstrated excellent animal husbandry or guest engagement. Highlight any unique situations where you used your initiative to solve problems.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past positions. Emphasise your adaptability and willingness to learn from your colleagues.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics, the educational programmes, or the types of animals you'll be working with. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.