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- Tasks: Care for over 70 species and ensure their wellbeing in a vibrant zoo environment.
- Company: Join the dynamic team at Tilgate Zoo, a top tourist attraction.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, discounts, and wellbeing incentives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care and conservation while working with exotic species.
- Qualifications: A Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals or equivalent is preferred.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns and opportunities for career growth in a supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 29282 - 35000 £ per year.
Tilgate Park Zookeeper
Sector: Animal Care. Type: Paid Contract. Full-time. Salary: From £29,282.00.
Closing date: 20th Oct 2025.
Contact: Sam Whitbread (sam.whitbread@crawley.gov.uk).
Overview
Tilgate Zoo, part of Tilgate Park, a top tourist attraction with upwards of 750,000 visitors per year, is looking for an enthusiastic and passionate individual to join our team. The zoo is a collection of over 70 species (mammals, birds and ectotherms) and supports the highest standards of animal husbandry, enclosure design, animal welfare and conservation.
Responsibilities
- Animal husbandry for domestic and exotic species, including farm stock, ring-tailed lemur, Andean condor, serval, Madagascan boa, naked mole rat.
- Enclosure and site maintenance while upholding highest standards of health and safety.
- Work as part of a small team reporting to the Senior Zookeeper and Zoo Manager.
- Weekend work and flexible working pattern; evening, weekend, Bank Holidays and rest days may be required with a 14% enhancement.
- A full and current UK driving licence is required.
Qualifications
- Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or equivalent.
- Experience caring for a small collection of domestic and exotic species.
- Satisfactory clearance of a Basic Disclosure and Barring Check (DBS).
Benefits
We offer a generous employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.
Application
Complete your application online by following the link:
https://crawley.gov.uk/council-information/jobs-and-careers/current-vacancies/tilgate-park-zookeeper-4
Please ensure that the reference details you supply are for your current or most recent employer and that any gaps in employment are covered on your application form. CVs will not be accepted without a fully completed application form.
We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible, as we may close this advert before the stated closing date if enough applications are received.
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Zookeeper employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Zookeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before your interview, spend some time researching Tilgate Zoo and its unique features. Familiarise yourself with the animals they care for and any recent news or conservation efforts. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former zookeepers on LinkedIn or at local animal care events. They can provide insider tips about the role and the team, plus it’s a great way to get your name out there in the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on questions! Be ready to discuss your experience with animal husbandry and how you would handle specific situations. Think about examples from your past roles that demonstrate your skills and passion for animal care.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure to complete your application online as soon as possible. The sooner you apply, the better your chances are of landing that dream job at Tilgate Zoo. Don’t forget to double-check your references and cover any employment gaps!
We think you need these skills to ace Zookeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animals: When writing your application, let your love for animals shine through! Share any relevant experiences you have with animal care or conservation, and make sure to highlight why you want to work at Tilgate Zoo specifically.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application. Make sure to tailor your responses to the job description. Mention specific species you’re excited to work with and how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the ad.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we want to see your qualifications and experience without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the advert early if we get enough applications, so get yours in as soon as you can through our website to ensure you don’t miss out!
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 the species you'll be working with at Tilgate Zoo. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, habitats, and care requirements. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for animal welfare.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a zookeeper, teamwork is crucial. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked in a team before. Highlight your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, especially in high-pressure situations, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Conservation
Tilgate Zoo values conservation efforts, so come ready to talk about any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in. Whether it's volunteering, education, or personal projects, showing your dedication to wildlife conservation can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the zoo's operations, future projects, or animal care practices. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in the zoo's mission and how you can contribute to it.
