At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for diverse mammals, oversee daily management, and develop enrichment programs.
- Company: Join Blackpool Zoo, a leading leisure attraction with over 50 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £29,550, full-time role, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Engage with the public and collaborate with veterinary staff in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while working with amazing species.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of experience with mammals and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 29550 - 29550 £ per year.
Blackpool Zoo is currently looking to recruit an experienced Senior Keeper to join our Mammal Section team. The successful candidate will work alongside the existing team in the daily care and husbandry of our animal collection, whilst also providing support and guidance to other keepers within the section. The zoo houses a wide range of mammal species, from Cotton-top Tamarins to Asian Elephants, and applicants should have experience working with a wide range of mammal taxa.
As a Senior Animal Keeper at Blackpool Zoo, you will play a crucial role in the care, management, and enrichment of our diverse animal collection. You will help support a team of keepers, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health, and husbandry. This position requires a hands-on approach and a deep commitment to the animals under their care.
The successful applicant will be a proven team player with a good knowledge of the zoological industry and an understanding of the requirements needed to maintain and continuously improve the husbandry and welfare of the animal species under their care. You will be required to work with all species on your section in a safe and secure manner and will have excellent training skills using positive reinforcement methods.
As a Senior Animal Keeper, you may be expected to oversee and supervise other staff members and on occasions manage the section in the absence of the Section Manager, this is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to progress in their career.
Key Responsibilities:- Oversee the daily care and management of a specific section of the zoo, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animal health.
- Develop and implement enrichment programs to promote natural behaviours and enhance animal well-being.
- Supervise and mentor seasonal keepers, trainee keepers and animal keepers, providing training and guidance to ensure best practices in animal care.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff to monitor and address the health needs of the animals.
- Maintain accurate records of animal care, health, and behaviour.
- Engage with the public through educational talks, demonstrations, and interactive experiences.
- Minimum of 5 year's keeping experience with some category 1 species (Elephants, Big Cats or Apes) desirable.
- Extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare, and enrichment practices.
- Strong leadership and team management skills with a focus on mentoring and motivation.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- You should possess the Diploma in The Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or an equivalent qualification.
- A full UK Driving license.
Senior Keeper Mammals employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling role as a Storesperson at the iconic Edinburgh Zoo. With a strong commitment to wildlife conservation, RZSS fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing through generous benefits such as a competitive salary, extensive annual leave, and access to a healthcare plan. Employees also enjoy unique perks like free entry to both the Highland Wildlife Park and Edinburgh Zoo, making it a rewarding place to grow professionally while contributing to a meaningful mission.
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 Keeper Mammals
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Keeper Mammals
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).
