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- Tasks: Join our team as a Ranger, caring for exotic animals and supporting conservation efforts.
- Company: Fota Wildlife Park is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to wildlife conservation and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for personal growth and hands-on experience in animal care.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while working in a vibrant, educational environment.
- Qualifications: Four years of relevant zoological experience and a passion for animal welfare are essential.
- Other info: Flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, and a commitment to diversity in the workplace.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Overview
Ranger role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) – Fota Wildlife Park, Ireland. This is a full-time permanent position reporting to the Lead Ranger and supporting Lead and Senior Rangers in the assigned section.
Fota Wildlife Park is a not-for-profit organisation, part of the Zoological Society of Ireland, located on 100 acres at Fota Island, 10 km east of Cork City. The park’s core values are conservation, education and research.
Closing date for applications: 12 September 2025. Contact: HR Recruitment (recruitment@fotawildlife.ie). Sector: Animal Care. Type: Paid. Contract type: Full-time. Salary: TBA.
Apply online via the Fota Wildlife Park website: https://www.fotawildlife.ie/pages/jobs
Equal opportunity employer. Fota Wildlife Park is dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment.
Responsibilities
- Ensure the health, condition and behaviour of the animals are closely monitored and maintained to the highest standards, taking preventative or remedial action in liaison with the Senior Section staff, and keeping all relevant records as required.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge relevant to the section, utilise available resources, and make recommendations for change and improvement through appropriate channels.
- Work with veterinary personnel on all aspects of animal health care, including assisting with capture and restraint of all species and supporting preventative medicine programmes as required.
- Develop the operant conditioning programme with the Senior Section staff and train to a level that includes various completed behaviours.
- Develop provision of enrichment to stimulate animals physically and psychologically.
- Ensure Park policies and procedures are followed, and uphold Health and Safety practices; implement new safe working practices with approval from senior line managers where appropriate.
- Collaborate with the Education Department to facilitate educational programs.
- Be able to work a flexible schedule, including some holidays, occasional evenings and early mornings.
- Have a good working knowledge of Microsoft software and a working knowledge of ZIMS.
- Be able to travel across large areas of Fota Wildlife Park as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
- Substantial experience in zoological animal management, with at least four years in a BIAZA/EAZA or similarly accredited facility.
- Has achieved or is willing to work towards an appropriate animal-related qualification (DMZAA or equivalent).
- Comprehensive understanding of Health & Safety as applied in a zoological setting and proficiency in IT systems including ZIMS.
- This is a physically demanding role; candidates must have good physical fitness.
- Fluent in written and spoken English; must have an approved permit to work in Ireland where applicable.
- Role involves working alternate weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) and some public holidays.
The responsibilities outlined are not exhaustive and may be subject to change. Additional duties may be assigned to meet the needs of the organisation.
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Ranger 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 Ranger
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Fota Wildlife Park's mission and values. Understanding their focus on conservation, education, and research will help you align your passion for animal care with their goals during any interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain hands-on experience in animal care, particularly in a zoological setting. Volunteering or interning at similar facilities can provide you with valuable insights and skills that will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the animal care industry. Attend workshops, seminars, or events related to wildlife conservation to meet people who might provide referrals or insider information about the Ranger position.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience with operant conditioning and animal enrichment. Being able to articulate your practical knowledge will demonstrate your suitability for the role and your commitment to animal welfare.
We think you need these skills to ace Ranger
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Ranger position at Fota Wildlife Park. Understand the responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in zoological animal management, particularly any roles that involved operant conditioning and animal enrichment. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Ranger position.
Showcase Your Passion: Fota Wildlife Park values conservation and education. Make sure to express your passion for animal care and biodiversity in your application. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to these values.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-structured and easy to read. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Care
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for animal care and conservation during the interview. Share any relevant experiences you have had with animals, whether in a professional or volunteer capacity, to demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in zoological animal management. Focus on specific examples that showcase your skills in operant conditioning, animal enrichment, and health care, as these are crucial for the Ranger position.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Health & Safety
Since the role requires a comprehensive understanding of Health & Safety in a zoological setting, be ready to talk about your knowledge and experience in this area. Mention any relevant training or certifications you have that relate to safety practices.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about Fota Wildlife Park's conservation efforts, educational programs, and team dynamics. This shows your interest in the organisation and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
