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- Tasks: Join a team to enhance animal welfare through observation and research.
- Company: Chester Zoo is a leading zoological collection focused on animal and plant care.
- Benefits: Enjoy full training, uniform, lunch vouchers, and potential monthly stipends.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in animal behaviour while contributing to conservation efforts.
- Qualifications: Passion for animal welfare, organizational skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office required.
- Other info: This placement is for UK university students with an industrial year requirement.
Animal Behaviour & Welfare Industry Placement Full-time industrial placement (up to 12 months) commencing September 2025.
Are you excited by the prospect of gaining invaluable work experience with one of Europe’s leading Zoological collections?
Chester Zoo aims to be a centre of excellence for animal and plant care based on sound scientific principles. The Behaviour & Welfare Placement provides experience within a comprehensive applied animal science programme, with the ultimate aim of optimising animal wellbeing.
What you’ll be doing
Working in a team environment with the Lead Conservation Scientist and Conservation Scientists specialising in Behaviour & Welfare, the Behaviour and Welfare Voluntary Work Placement will :
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Assist with the day-to-day activities of the applied animal behaviour and welfare programme for over 500 animal species
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Undertake observations of animal behaviour across a variety of species using different methods
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Learn how to observe, record and analyse animal behaviour data and write summary reports for a range of stakeholders
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Conduct a zoo animal behaviour research project and have the opportunity to present the findings to Chester Zoo staff, and potentially at a national conference
The Work Placement
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The year in industry placement is for a period of up to 12 months commencing in September 2025
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Full Training with the Conservation & Science Teams
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Uniform provided, along with lunch vouchers for the days you attend
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Monthly stipends of up to £120 per month may be payable based on appropriate expenses
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Full Time Hours (40 hours per week), alternatives can be discussed if you are successfully shortlisted
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A bursary may be available upon a successful application
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A passion for animal behaviour and welfare, demonstrated through previous work experience and related study (e.g. zoology, animal behaviour, animal welfare)
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Be highly organised and take pride in what you do
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The ability to write and deliver oral presentations in a clear, concise and engaging manner
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A desire to learn how science can be used to help support best practice in animal husbandry and care
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Experience of using Microsoft Office software such as Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
This opportunity is only available to those studying at a UK university on a degree programme with an industrial year.
Industrial placements are full-time voluntary positions for maximum of a year, commencing September 2025. Although no direct animal contact takes place in this role, you will attend monthly workshops to gain wider knowledge of modern zoo management.
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Animal Behaviour & Welfare Industry Placement employer: Chester Zoo
Contact Detail:
Chester Zoo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Behaviour & Welfare Industry Placement
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to network with professionals in the field of animal behaviour and welfare. Attend relevant workshops, seminars, or conferences where you can meet conservation scientists and other experts. This can help you gain insights into the industry and potentially get a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain practical experience by volunteering at local animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or zoos. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your understanding of animal behaviour but also demonstrate your commitment to the field when you apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarize yourself with the latest research and methodologies in animal behaviour and welfare. Being knowledgeable about current trends and practices will show your passion and dedication during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences and how they relate to the role. Think about specific examples where you've demonstrated your organizational skills, ability to work in a team, and your passion for animal welfare, as these are key qualities they are looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Behaviour & Welfare Industry Placement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasize any previous work experience or studies related to animal behaviour and welfare. This could include internships, volunteer work, or relevant coursework in zoology or animal science.
Show Your Passion: Convey your enthusiasm for animal behaviour and welfare in your application. Share specific examples of what drives your interest in this field and how it aligns with Chester Zoo's mission.
Demonstrate Communication Skills: Since the role requires writing reports and delivering presentations, showcase your ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Include examples of past presentations or written work that highlight these skills.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the placement. Mention your organizational skills and willingness to learn, as these are key attributes for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester Zoo
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for animal behaviour and welfare during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or studies that highlight your commitment to this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Since being highly organised is crucial for this role, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed tasks or projects in the past. This could include academic projects or previous work experiences where you had to keep track of multiple responsibilities.
✨Prepare for Data Analysis Questions
As the role involves observing and analysing animal behaviour data, be ready to discuss your experience with data analysis. Familiarise yourself with basic statistical concepts and be prepared to explain how you would approach data collection and reporting.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll need to present findings to staff and potentially at conferences, practice delivering clear and engaging presentations. Consider preparing a short presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
