At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for sea lions and deliver engaging animal talks to visitors.
- Company: Join the exciting team at Chessington World of Adventures.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and exclusive Merlin perks.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for ongoing training and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in animal care while creating memorable experiences for guests.
- Qualifications: Experience in marine mammal training and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 27000 € per year.
Location: Chessington World of Adventures, Greater London
Closing date for applications: 20th May 2026
Contact: Michael Best (michael.best@merlinentertainments.biz)
About the Role
We are currently recruiting for a Zookeeper for our Presentations team. This section cares for a variety of species, including California sea lions, Humboldt penguins, a small display team of owls, amongst others. With a particular focus on the sea lions, you will be responsible for carrying out the daily husbandry and training of the animals on the section including the use of positive-reinforcement techniques, enclosure cleaning, diet preparation, record keeping and site maintenance. Other duties will include planning, evaluating and executing environmental enrichment for the animals under your care and delivering first-class animal talks and demonstrations and other activities to provide our Adventurers with memorable, educational experiences.
This role is full time, permanent, averaging 40 hours per week and will include evenings, weekends and bank holidays as required by the business.
Qualifications & Experience
- Demonstrable skills in positive reinforcement training are vital
- Hands-on experience in marine mammal training is highly desirable
- A minimum of three years’ experience in a zoo environment
- DMZAA or equivalent qualification is desirable
- A degree in Animal Science, Zoology, Biology or related field is preferred
- Ability to stay focused and in control under pressure
- Excellent spoken and written communication skills
- Experience in delivering animal talks and demonstrations
- Excellent time management is essential as are good organisation skills
- Possession of a forklift license, tractor certification and/or firearms experience would be advantageous
Benefits
- An annual salary of £27,000
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- Enjoy the Ride Merlin Annual Passes - 6 in total per year, 1 for you, plus 5 to gift to loved ones
- Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all of our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
- Company bonus
- Private pension scheme
- 40% discount online off LEGO
- 25% discount in our on-site retail shops and restaurants
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
Presentations Keeper (Sea Lions) employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
At Chessington World of Adventures, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates animal care and education. As a Presentations Keeper, you will enjoy competitive benefits including a generous salary, extensive holiday allowance, and unique perks like Merlin Annual Passes and discounts at our attractions. With ongoing training and development opportunities, we are committed to fostering your growth in a rewarding environment where you can make a meaningful impact on both animals and guests alike.
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Presentations Keeper (Sea Lions)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! If you can, reach out to current employees or even the hiring manager, Michael Best. A friendly chat can give you insights into the role and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a short presentation or a demo about positive reinforcement training techniques. This will not only highlight your expertise but also demonstrate your passion for animal care.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for the unexpected! During interviews, they might throw in some scenario-based questions. Think on your feet and showcase how you'd handle various situations with the sea lions and other animals.
✨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 the team at Chessington World of Adventures.
We think you need these skills to ace Presentations Keeper (Sea Lions)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for animals and marine life shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for working with sea lions and other creatures, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your passion!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Presentations Keeper. Highlight your hands-on experience in marine mammal training and any qualifications you have. We’re looking for specific skills, so don’t be shy about showcasing them!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your written application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
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, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company there.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Sea Lions
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about California sea lions and their behaviours. Familiarise yourself with their training techniques, especially positive reinforcement, as this will show your passion and expertise in marine mammal care.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience in a zoo environment. Prepare specific examples of your previous roles, particularly any work involving animal training or public demonstrations. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can deliver memorable experiences for visitors.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice delivering a short animal talk or demonstration. This will not only help you feel more confident but also showcase your ability to engage an audience during the interview.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially for a role that requires focus and control. Practice relaxation techniques beforehand, and remember to take a deep breath if you feel overwhelmed during the interview. Showing that you can maintain composure will reflect well on your suitability for the job.
