At a Glance
- Tasks: Support animal care and mentor the keeper team at Twycross Zoo.
- Company: Join a historic conservation charity with a passion for animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days annual leave, free zoo entry, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal conservation while engaging with visitors.
- Qualifications: BSc in animal or conservation subject and experience in zoo management preferred.
The predicted salary is between 29914 - 29914 £ per year.
Twycross Zoo is a fantastic conservation and education charity and historic organisation that has existed for 60 years. At the heart of what we do, the reason we exist, is to be an influential conservation and education charity, delivering on our commitments to be guest obsessed and provide world‑class animal environments and levels of husbandry. Alongside this, we strive to be an effective charity with a commercial mindset, putting our people at the heart of the organisation.
Key Objectives
- To support the Team Leader in the running of the section, ensuring that all elements of animal care is carried out effectively and safely.
- Support and mentor the keeper team in all areas to ensure continued development, competency and performance in their roles.
- Role modelling the company values in all areas of your work, ensuring the team feel empowered to consistently deliver outstanding experiences to our guests.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in establishing section husbandry and management routines to deliver a high level of animal care to relevant species. This includes, but is not limited to, enclosure servicing, diet provision, positive reinforcement training and providing a full range of enrichment opportunities.
- Follow these and ensure they are also followed by the keeper team.
- Conduct observations on the relevant animals during the working day. Report anything of concern from across the team to the most applicable person.
- Ensure all relevant risk assessments, standard operating procedures and policies are followed at all times, to ensure best practice for safe working, in line with health and safety practices.
- Be proactive in looking for ways to improve own working knowledge and keep abreast of best practice of relevant species.
- Show initiative in how TZ can continually improve the wellbeing of its animals.
- Record all required elements of animal data and ensure anything recorded by the team is to the required standard. Includes, but isn’t limited to, section diary entries, DAM daily reports and single data entry points on ZIMS.
- Deputise for the Team Leader when needed.
- Engage with visitors on site, which may include delivering or assisting with animal talks and public feeds.
- Be proactive in the support and facilitation of work from other departments, including zoo‑based research, conservation education and animal services.
- Show initiative in the suggestion of beneficial zoo‑based research for the relevant species.
- Work closely with other departments such as veterinary and maintenance, taking a proactive approach where animal health and welfare is affected.
- Communicate anything pertinent to the team in a timely manner.
- Work on improving knowledge and understanding of the work of BIAZA and EAZA. Consider opportunities to play an active role where suitable.
About You
- A BSc (or equivalent experience) in an animal or conservation related subject desirable.
- Achieved the DMZAA (or equivalent) qualification.
- Significant knowledge of relevant taxa, including their physiology, natural behaviours and management practices in zoos.
- Up to date best practice knowledge for species management.
- High level of motivation in delivering these high standards and the pursuit of excellence.
- Experienced in how to mentor and support a variety of people.
- Be open, approachable and have a flexible and calm working style.
- Has excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritise work; completing own work whilst supporting others.
- A competent communicator at all levels across the society.
- Be appreciative and follow the need for confidentiality where appropriate.
- IT competent in MS Office and ZIMS.
- Knowledge of breeding programme management and the wider role of modern zoos in species and habitat conservation, with some understanding of species planning.
- Committed to supporting zoos in increasing our impact on species conservation.
- Flexibility in working times and duties is a key requirement.
- Physically able to complete section work as required.
Benefits Include
- 31 days annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing with service.
- Life assurance.
- Company sick pay from 6 months service.
- Free zoo entry for you and complimentary tickets for family and friends.
- Discounts in our gift shop and food outlets.
- Access to an employee discount platform.
- Monthly recognition awards.
- Employee assistance services.
- Free parking.
Apply For This Job
Join us and play a vital role behind the scenes, supporting our mission to deliver world‑class experiences and conservation impact. Apply now by sending your CV and cover letter to human.resources@twycrosszoo.org.
Senior Keeper - Primates employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Twycross Zoo is an exceptional employer, dedicated to conservation and education while fostering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development. With generous benefits such as 31 days of annual leave, life assurance, and opportunities for professional growth, you will be part of a passionate team committed to delivering outstanding animal care and guest experiences in a vibrant East Midlands location.
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 - Primates
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Twycross Zoo on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows our genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Twycross Zoo's conservation efforts and animal care practices. We want to impress them with our knowledge and passion for their mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to animal care and teamwork. We can even do mock interviews with friends to boost our confidence and refine our answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate why we’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Keeper - Primates
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in animal care and conservation. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Senior Keeper - Primates, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for animal welfare and conservation. Let us know why you’re excited about the opportunity at Twycross Zoo and how you can contribute to our mission.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:Since this role involves mentoring and supporting others, highlight any previous experience you have in team leadership or training. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and empower their colleagues!
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 shows you’re keen on joining our fantastic team at Twycross Zoo!
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 primates and their behaviours. Familiarise yourself with the species you'll be working with at Twycross Zoo, including their natural habitats and conservation status. This will show your passion for animal care and your commitment to their wellbeing.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Senior Keeper, you'll be expected to mentor and support your team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led or trained others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and foster a positive working environment.
✨Show Initiative
Think about ways you can improve animal care practices or enhance visitor experiences. Be ready to discuss any innovative ideas you have for enrichment activities or conservation efforts. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and dedication to the zoo's mission.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the zoo's conservation initiatives or team dynamics. Engaging with the interviewers shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
