Senior Zoo Keeper

Overview

Join to apply for the Senior Zoo Keeper role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).

Location: Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey KT9 2NE

Salary: £27,500 • Contract type: Full-time • Sector: Animal Care

Closing date for applications: 9th Sep 2025

Contact: Carly Brady (people.team@chessington.co.uk)

About The Role

Here at Chessington World of Adventures we are currently recruiting for a Senior Keeper to join the Zoo team. We are offering an exciting opportunity for a passionate and professional animal keeper to play a key role in the care, welfare, and management of a diverse range of species, including but not limited to Binturong, Asian short-clawed otters, Capybara, and a variety of primates.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the daily husbandry and care of these animals, ensuring the highest standards of welfare and enrichment are maintained. They will support and contribute to training and enrichment programs designed to encourage natural behaviours and enhance overall wellbeing. In addition to hands-on animal care, the role involves providing leadership and mentorship to the keeper team, promoting a collaborative and supportive working environment. Engagement with visitors is also a key aspect of the role, with opportunities to deliver educational talks and demonstrations that inspire and inform the public.

About You

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to use initiative, take ownership, and make sound decisions in daily operations. Confident in supervising staff and contributing to operational planning.
• Proactive and solutions-focused, with the confidence to contribute ideas and drive improvements in practices.
• Able to stay calm, focused, and in control under pressure, including during emergencies or unexpected challenges.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to mentor and support others.
• Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays, and irregular hours as required.

Qualifications & Experience

• 5+ Years professional animal care experience, preferably in a zoological institution.
• A degree in Zoology, Animal Science, Biology, or related field is preferable.
• Strong people management skills, including the ability to lead and motivate a team.
• Familiarity with animal husbandry practices and ethical animal care standards.
• Knowledge of safety protocols, husbandry best practices, and conservation principles.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary
• 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
• Plus, many more…

Apply For This Job

To submit an application please use the following line: Senior Zoo Keeper in Chessington, Surrey | Careers at Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Administrative

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