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- Tasks: Care for endangered species and support wildlife park development.
- Company: Innovative animal rescue centre focused on evidence-based care.
- Benefits: Seasonal full-time role with accommodation support and unique experience.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of wildlife care in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering project and make a real difference in wildlife conservation.
- Qualifications: Experience with large mammals, strong communication skills, and a passion for animal welfare.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the role
These are not conventional keeper posts. Care for the Rare is a new type of species rescue centre built on an animal-centred, evidence-based philosophy of care. Welfare science, behavioural ecology and species-specific needs shape everything we do, from daily husbandry to habitat design and long-term planning.
You will join us at a pivotal stage, supporting the management and relocation of a herd of six white rhino, with giraffe and other endangered herbivores to follow. As the Cornwall site develops, you will play an active role in building a welfare-led wildlife park from the ground up.
We are hiring a variety of roles at different levels of experience.
Key responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality daily husbandry and welfare management of rhino, giraffe and other hoofstock in line with our animal-centred, evidence-based approach
- Maintain accurate husbandry, behavioural and welfare records to support licensing, compliance and continuous improvement
- Contribute to the development and refinement of best practice standards and SOPs with senior management
- Support welfare monitoring, research activity and data collection on site
- Assist with animal transfers and developing site infrastructure
- Deliver keeper talks and engage professionally with visitors, partners and the wider zoo and conservation community
- Support general site operations, enclosure maintenance and grounds tasks as required
- Uphold high standards of health, safety and biosecurity at all times
About you
We are looking for someone who:
- Has practical experience in hoofstock or large mammal husbandry
- Understands and is motivated by evidence-based animal welfare management
- Is organised, methodical and confident with record keeping and data collection
- Communicates clearly and professionally in public-facing settings
- Is adaptable, resilient and comfortable working in a fast-paced start-up environment
- Takes initiative, works collaboratively and is as genuinely committed to conservation and welfare as we are
- Relevant animal-based qualifications (completed or in progress), a full UK driving licence and the ability to undertake physically demanding outdoor work are required
- Firearms experience / license is desirable
Location requirements
You must be able to work initially in Cumbria for approximately 1–2 months and then relocate to the Cornwall site on an ongoing basis. Support for accommodation in Cumbria will be provided.
This is a rare opportunity to help shape a new model of welfare-led wildlife conservation in the UK.
Animal Care and Operations Specialists in Launceston employer: Care for the Rare
Contact Detail:
Care for the Rare Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Care and Operations Specialists in Launceston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Care for the Rare and understand their mission. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in their animal-centred approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might just land you a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to animal welfare and husbandry. Be ready to share your experiences and how they align with the evidence-based philosophy of Care for the Rare.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to wildlife conservation.
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Care and Operations Specialists in Launceston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare: When writing your application, let your love for animal care shine through! Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to evidence-based animal welfare management. We want to see how you connect with our mission!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the role of Animal Care & Operations Specialist. Highlight your practical experience with hoofstock or large mammals, and explain how your skills align with our animal-centred approach. This shows us you’ve done your homework!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts and you’ll be set!
How to prepare for a job interview at Care for the Rare
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of hoofstock and large mammals, especially rhinos and giraffes. Understanding their behaviour, welfare needs, and the latest in evidence-based care will show that you're genuinely passionate about animal welfare.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your practical experience in animal husbandry. Prepare specific examples of how you've managed animal care in the past, focusing on any evidence-based practices you've implemented. This will help demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since this role involves public-facing duties, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and professionally. You might even want to rehearse a keeper talk or two, as engaging with visitors is a key part of the job.
✨Emphasise Adaptability
This position is in a fast-paced start-up environment, so be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to change in previous roles. Share examples of times when you've taken initiative or worked collaboratively to overcome challenges.