Zoo Keeper – Permanent (subject to a three month probationary period)

Overview

Zoo Keeper – Permanent (subject to a three month probationary period) role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA). Location: Five Sisters Zoo, Scotland. Closing date for applications: 21 September 2025. Contact: Veselina Alvas (headkeeper@fivesisterszoo.co.uk).

Responsibilities

• Carry out work across all eight animal sections at Five Sisters Zoo (Carnivores, Primates, Birds, Education Centre, Farm, Castle Zoo, Domestics and Lost Kingdom Reptile House).
• Be responsible for the daily husbandry of a wide range of species.
• Create, design, and implement environmental enrichment in a range of different enclosures.
• Engage with visitors to the park and deliver talks to large crowds.
• Carry out work in all weather conditions and be willing to work weekends and evenings when required.
• Liaise with other zoo departments (education, events, etc.) as necessary.
• Record animal behaviour and ensure section notes are up to date for the animal registrar.
• Report to senior keepers and get involved with student placements and zoo research projects where appropriate.

Essential Requirements

• Excellent observation skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate one-to-one with staff and visitors and comfortable delivering public talks to large crowds.
• Physically fit and willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Capable of working both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Valid UK driving licence or good access to public transport.
• Previous zoo experience.

Desirable Requirements

• A Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA).
• Experience implementing environmental enrichment.

Staff Benefits

• Free zoo admission for family members.
• 25% discount across all food outlets and in the FSZ shop.
• Ongoing CPD and training opportunities.

Apply For This Job

Send a copy of your CV and covering letter, stating why you are applying and what you could bring to this role, to headkeeper@fivesisterszoo.co.uk. Please save your covering letter and CV as ONE DOCUMENT (Word or PDF) with the following format: FULL NAME – KEEPER APPLICATION – AUTUMN 2025.