At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist zookeeping team with daily reptile care and zoo upkeep.
- Company: Battersea Park Children's Zoo, a fun and educational environment.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in animal care and conservation.
- Other info: Minimum commitment of 1 day a week for 1 year.
- Why this job: Perfect for animal lovers wanting to make a difference while learning.
- Qualifications: Experience with animals preferred; enthusiasm and willingness to learn essential.
Battersea Park Children's Zoo is offering an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Volunteer Reptile Keeper. This section includes a variety of reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates, including those with breeding recommendations from the EEPs. We are looking for a motivated individual to assist the animal teams with their daily routine.
The volunteer will learn to care for the reptile section to a high standard, under the supervision of the animal team, as well as carry out additional tasks around the rest of the zoo if needed. There is potential to ultimately train on other sections for the right candidate. Please note that this section includes protected contact species and therefore candidates will be required to follow safe working practices and security protocols at all times.
Daily Tasks
- Carrying out daily husbandry tasks in the reptile house.
- Accurately recording temperatures, humidity, water parameters and UV.
- Carrying out aquarium water changes.
- Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedure within the reptile house.
- Cleaning and maintaining the habitats within the reptile house.
- Caring for tropical plants within a variety of habitats.
- Feeding, monitoring and cleaning the live food invertebrates for the zoo.
- Supporting positive visitor experiences by good customer service and visitor engagement.
- Creating and preparing species specific enrichment for the animals in the reptile house.
- Volunteer keepers may be asked to carry out tasks on other sections of the zoo if needed.
Please read this section before applying and consider carefully if a volunteer role is right for you. We mainly care for animals that do not enjoy or tolerate close human contact – if you are expecting to be handling, grooming or playing with animals then this is not the role for you. Zookeeping is physically demanding and you must be prepared to be on your feet for the majority of the day. Elements of the role require heavy lifting and so a moderate level of fitness is required. You must also be prepared to be outside in all weathers and occasionally may have to work in areas with high temperature and humidity. We work in an environment that exposes us to many known allergens including (but not limited to) nuts, wheat, eggs, crustaceans etc. This also includes environmental allergens such as pollen, hay, dust, animal fur etc. Please consider this in your application.
Required Skills
- Experience of working with animals is preferred.
- Enthusiasm and an interest in animals and conservation.
- Ability to work independently and in a team, and be confident to ask for assistance when needed.
- Ability to work calmly and sensitively in animal environments.
- Good levels of physical fitness – this involves working in environments that are both hot and humid, cold and wet.
- Good levels of English to enable clear communication and understanding.
- Good initiative and a willingness to learn, follow instructions and communicate.
- Commitment to ongoing training.
Commitment to Role
This placement is a minimum of 1 day a week for 1 year. Hours are 8:30am-5:30pm in summer and 8:00-5:00pm in winter.
Volunteer Reptile Keeper employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Battersea Park Children's Zoo is an exceptional employer for those passionate about animal care and conservation. As a Volunteer Reptile Keeper, you will be part of a supportive team dedicated to providing high standards of animal husbandry while gaining invaluable hands-on experience in a vibrant environment. With opportunities for personal growth and training across various zoo sections, this role offers a meaningful way to contribute to wildlife education and visitor engagement in a beautiful park setting.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Reptile Keeper
✨Get Your Hands Dirty!
Volunteering in agriculture is all about getting stuck in, so look for local farms or community gardens that welcome volunteers. Not only will you gain practical experience, but you'll also build connections with like-minded folks in the industry who can help you land future opportunities.
✨Join Local Agricultural Groups
Connect with local agricultural societies or online communities. They often organise events, workshops, and meet-ups where you can meet people working in the field. This is a great way to learn about potential volunteer opportunities and get your face known in the community!
✨Leverage Social Media
Don't underestimate the power of social media! Follow local farms and agricultural organisations on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. They often post about volunteer opportunities. Plus, it keeps you in the loop about trends in agriculture that can enhance your knowledge when you apply.
✨Show Your Commitment
When applying to volunteer, convey your passion for agriculture in your communications. Whether it's through a casual chat at a community event or a message on social media, let them know why you're interested in making a difference. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other volunteers!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Reptile Keeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability:In the agriculture sector, showing that you care about sustainable farming practices is key! Make sure your application reflects your passion for the environment, organic farming, or community-supported agriculture. Let us know what motivates you to get involved, whether it's a personal story or a commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Show Relevant Experience, No Matter How Small:Even if you haven't had official roles in agriculture, any experience you have is valuable. This could include volunteering at local farms, gardening at home, or participating in community clean-up events. Don't underestimate these experiences – they demonstrate your willingness to roll up your sleeves and learn!
Speak the Language of Agriculture:Use specific terms related to agriculture in your application to showcase your knowledge of the industry. Reference any techniques or practices you’re familiar with, like crop rotation or permaculture. This not only shows your understanding of the field but also impresses us at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) with your enthusiasm and capability for the role.
Be Open About Your Availability:Since this is a volunteer position, making your availability transparent is crucial. Clearly outline when you can help, whether it's weekends, weekdays, or specific hours. Being flexible with your time shows dedication and a willingness to contribute, which we really value at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Show Your Passion for the Land
When you’re going for a volunteer role in agriculture, it's super important to convey your genuine interest in farming and sustainability. Share any personal projects, community gardens, or farming-related experiences you've had, as this shows your commitment and enthusiasm for the field.
✨Demonstrate Practical Skills
Farming isn't just theoretical; it's hands-on work! Be ready to discuss any practical skills you have, like operating machinery, planting techniques, or even basic animal husbandry. If you've worked with specific tools or technology, highlight that experience since it can set you apart.
✨Bringing Relevant Knowledge to the Table
Brush up on the latest agricultural practices and sustainability trends before your interview. Being knowledgeable about topics like crop rotation, permaculture, or organic farming methods shows that you’re interested in not just volunteering, but actually contributing to meaningful work at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).
✨Highlight Teamwork and Adaptability
Volunteering in agriculture often means working closely with others in outdoor conditions, sometimes in challenging weather. Be sure to talk about how you've successfully worked in teams or adapted to new environments in previous experiences. This will assure British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) that you can roll with the punches while getting your hands dirty.
