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- Tasks: Care for primates, including feeding, cleaning, and enclosure maintenance.
- Company: Join the passionate team at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve in Kent.
- Benefits: Up to £27,500 salary, 28 days leave, and amazing discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in conservation while working with incredible animals.
- Qualifications: Experience with primates and a valid driving licence required.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team environment and extensive training opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 27500 £ per year.
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, based in Kent, is seeking a passionate, hardworking and motivated animal keeper to work with a team of enthusiastic keepers on our primate section. The successful applicant will be expected to undertake all duties on the section from general husbandry including cleaning and feeding as well as enclosure maintenance and record keeping. Conservation education plays a big role in the park so there will be plenty of opportunities for talks and encounters with the public. We provide extensive staff training and will offer the opportunity to develop your professional skills and abilities.
Who We Are Looking For
The successful candidate will ideally have experience working with primates, gained in a mainstream zoological collection and a full valid driving licence is essential. You will be a good communicator with the ability to impart knowledge to the section. You will need to be confident around all types of primates with a hands-on approach to the restraint and handling of animals where necessary. Knowledge of health and safety is essential. A working knowledge of basic Office software will be an advantage, as well as an understanding of ZIMS.
Contract Details
The position is full time, working 40 hours per week, worked five days out of seven and will include weekends and bank holidays. A flexible approach to working hours is essential in any animal job. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Location
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a world-renowned wild animal park set within 600 acres of Kentish savannah. The Reserve is home to some of the world’s most rare and endangered animals and offers luxury short breaks accommodation, free roaming animal safaris, once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters and exquisite dining experiences. Most importantly, every one of our employees is part of real conservation in action and their efforts have contributed to animals such as black rhino and western lowland gorillas being returned to their natural habitats in collaboration with our partners at The Aspinall Foundation.
Why You Should Join Us
We’re on a mission to create memorable experiences that matter, and our Core Values ‘One Team’, Customer’ and ‘Pride’ are what drive us each day to become part of something extraordinary. As well as walking to work surrounded by the calls of Howler monkeys and the roars from our pride of Lions, you will join a supportive team who are passionate about their place of work. Be part of the Port Lympne and Howletts family and join our pride.
Benefits
- 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays, rising with length of service. (Pro-rata to start date and working hours)
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including workshops and e-learning.
- Enhanced Sickness, Maternity and Paternity Policies.
- Unlimited free entry for you and a person of your choice into both of our parks as well as friends and family tickets.
- Exceptional discounts on food, retail and accommodation at our parks.
- Numerous retail discounts and access to a 24-hour counselling line through our Healthy Extras Scheme.
- Company Pension
- And many more length or service-related rewards and Benefits.
Your adventure awaits.
To Apply: Please email your full C.V. and covering letter to recruitment@howlettsandportlympne.com. Closing Date: 13th April 2026. Please note, this role may close early if we receive a high volume of applications.
Primate Keeper 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 Primate Keeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team at Port Lympne! Reach out on social media or through their website to connect with current staff. This can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your primate knowledge and conservation practices. We want to see your passion for animal care, so be ready to share your experiences and ideas!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be interacting with the public, think about how you can effectively share your knowledge about primates and conservation during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It shows you're serious about joining the Port Lympne family and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Primate Keeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for animal care and primates shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about the animals and conservation efforts.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with primates or in zoological settings. We love seeing how your skills align with what we do at Port Lympne, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of your experience and how it relates to the role. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can communicate well and engage with the public.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications better and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Primates
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of different primate species and their behaviours. Being able to discuss specific examples of your experience with primates will show your passion and expertise in animal care.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with the public and educating them about conservation, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Prepare a few anecdotes or experiences where you successfully communicated with visitors or colleagues.
✨Demonstrate Your Hands-On Experience
Be ready to talk about your practical experience in animal handling and husbandry. Share specific instances where you’ve had to use restraint techniques or manage animal health and safety, as this will highlight your confidence and competence.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ZIMS
If you have experience with ZIMS or similar software, mention it during the interview. If not, take some time to learn the basics. Showing that you're proactive about learning new tools can set you apart from other candidates.