Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manage habitats and monitor native species at Chester Zoo.
- Company: Chester Zoo is one of Europe's leading Conservation Zoos, dedicated to biodiversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy full training, lunch vouchers, and a monthly stipend while gaining hands-on experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in conservation while working in beautiful outdoor settings.
- Qualifications: Passion for biodiversity, experience in UK species conservation, and proficiency in Microsoft Office required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, 12-month voluntary placement starting September 2025, exclusively for UK university students.
Field Programmes Estate Biodiversity Industry Placement Full-time 12 month industrial placement commencing September 2025
Are you excited by the prospect of gaining invaluable work experience with one of Europe’s leading Conservation Zoos? This one-year placement provides experience within our Field Programmes Department at Chester Zoo, which facilitates, coordinates and develops field conservation projects. This placement will focus on habitat management and native species monitoring across the wider Zoo Estate, which is home to a wide range of habitats and some of the UK’s most protected species..
What you’ll be doing
The placement will work alongside the wider Field Programmes Team, but predominantly within the Estate Biodiversity team who manage the Chester Zoo estate’s biodiversity areas. The Estate Biodiversity placement will include :
-
Assist with day-to-day practical habitat management activities
-
Assistwith bird surveys, butterfly transects, great crested newt monitoring and other surveys on the Zoo Estate, as well as the badger vaccination scheme.
-
Regular data management, reporting, writing of articles and involvement in other field programme projects as and when needed.
-
Involvement in partnership activities, including collaboration with Record The Local Environmental Record Centre for the Cheshire Region.
-
Opportunity to focus on at least one specific project in relation to the current work in our conservation field programmes, often aligned with the data collected on the estate.
The Work Placement
-
The year in industry placement is for a period of up to 12 months commencing in September 2025
-
Full Training with the Conservation & Science Teams
-
Uniform provided, along with lunch vouchers for the days you attend
-
Monthly stipends of up to £120 per month may be payable based on appropriate expenses
-
Full Time Hours (40 hours per week) alternatives can be discussed if you are successfully shortlisted
-
A bursary may be available upon a successful application
-
A passion for in situ biodiversity conservation and its connection to ex situ work, demonstrated through previous work experience and related study
-
Experience and interest in UK species conservation
-
Ability to work outdoors in all weathers on challenging terrain.
-
Highly organised, proactive in your approach to work and able to work independently as well as in a team, in the field and in the office.
-
A desire to learn how science can be used to help support and inform best practice in field conservation projects
-
Experience of using Microsoft Office software such as Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, and ideally GIS software.
This opportunity is only available to those studying at a UK university on a degree programme with an industrial year.
All industrial placements are full-time voluntary positions for 12 months, 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.
This role is based entirely at Chester Zoo with no overseas travel.
© 2025 Talent.com
Field Programmes - Estate Biodiversity Industry Placement employer: Chester Zoo
Contact Detail:
Chester Zoo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Field Programmes - Estate Biodiversity Industry Placement
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Chester Zoo's conservation projects and initiatives. Understanding their current work will not only help you during the interview but also show your genuine interest in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of biodiversity conservation. Attend relevant workshops or seminars, and connect with people who have experience in similar roles to gain insights and advice.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain practical experience by volunteering for local conservation projects or organizations. This hands-on experience will enhance your understanding of habitat management and species monitoring, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and research in biodiversity conservation. Being knowledgeable about current issues and advancements in the field will demonstrate your commitment and passion for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Field Programmes - Estate Biodiversity Industry Placement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Field Programmes Estate Biodiversity placement. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize any previous work or volunteer experience related to biodiversity conservation, habitat management, or species monitoring. Mention specific projects or tasks that demonstrate your passion and capability.
Showcase Your Skills: Be sure to mention your proficiency in Microsoft Office and any experience with GIS software. If you have experience working outdoors or in challenging environments, include that as well to show your readiness for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the position and Chester Zoo's mission. Discuss how your academic background and personal interests align with the goals of the Field Programmes Department.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester Zoo
✨Show Your Passion for Biodiversity
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for in situ biodiversity conservation. Share any relevant experiences or projects you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to this field.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills
Discuss your experience with data management and reporting, as well as your proficiency in Microsoft Office and GIS software. Be prepared to give examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles or studies.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Independence
The role requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively with others while also being proactive and self-sufficient in your tasks.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Since the placement involves practical habitat management activities, be ready to discuss your understanding of habitat management and species monitoring. Think about any relevant coursework or fieldwork that can illustrate your knowledge.
