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- Tasks: Care for giraffes and ensure their health and habitats are top-notch.
- Company: Chester Zoo, a leading wildlife charity dedicated to conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days leave, healthcare plan, and discounts on various services.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real difference in wildlife conservation.
- Qualifications: Degree in zoological science or equivalent experience with hoof stock species.
- Other info: Exciting career progression opportunities in a dynamic zoo environment.
The predicted salary is between 22500 - 29500 £ per year.
Overview
Join to apply for the Keeper – Giraffes role at Chester Zoo.
Following the opening of Heart of Africa in spring 2025, the successful applicant will support the team and play an integral part of the new mixed species and reserve exhibit.
Responsibilities
- Be responsible for maintaining excellent husbandry, health and welfare of a wide variety of hoof stock species.
- Be responsible for ensuring habitats and facilities are maintained to the highest possible standard.
- Have self-motivation to work independently, but also embrace working as part of a large, diverse, highly motivated team.
- Assist with the training and handling of animals, assisting veterinary staff with procedures and administering medication with relevant after care.
- Have the ability to deliver memorable and informative guest experiences.
The Package
- Permanent full-time position.
- 40hrs per week, worked on a rota basis including weekends and bank holidays.
- Salary £26,500 per annum
- 33 days annual leave per year (pro rata)
- Staff pass to visit the zoo during time off, plus a number of complimentary tickets for family and friends.
- Access to healthcare plan.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks.
- Pension scheme with generous employer contributions of up to 9%.
- Excellent training and career progression opportunities.
Our Requirements
- A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in the care and management of a variety of hoof stock species in a zoo or safari park setting, as well as the highest standards of enclosure management.
- Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Flexibility to accommodate different shift patterns for at least 6 months of the year.
- Experience of working within strict Safe Working Practices.
- Driving licence.
Desirable
- Experience working with mixed species exhibits.
- Aptitude to deliver comprehensive and informative Giraffe Experiences.
- Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role to maintain accurate records.
Closing date
Closing date for applications is Tuesday 22nd October 2025. We reserve the right to close vacancies earlier if a high level of applications is received. If you wish to be considered, please apply promptly as shortlisting and interviews may take place while the advert is live.
About Us
We are not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to 30,000 incredible animals. We are not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We are a major wildlife charity committed to the recovery of endangered species globally. As the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation. We are Chester Zoo, and we prevent extinction.
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Keeper - Giraffes employer: Chester Zoo
Contact Detail:
Chester Zoo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Keeper - Giraffes
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Chester Zoo! Familiarise yourself with their mission and values. When you walk into that interview, show us you’re not just passionate about animals but also about conservation. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your animal handling skills! If you’ve got experience with hoof stock species, be ready to share specific examples. We want to hear about your hands-on experience and how you’ve ensured their health and welfare.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! We love a candidate who can work independently but also thrives in a diverse team. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve collaborated with others in past roles to achieve common goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! When you get the chance, inquire about the new mixed species exhibit. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to our exciting future at Chester Zoo.
We think you need these skills to ace Keeper - Giraffes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for animals and conservation shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for working with giraffes and how you can contribute to their care and welfare.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience with hoof stock species and any qualifications you have. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills in animal care and enclosure management.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and skills, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team at Chester Zoo.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester Zoo
✨Know Your Giraffes
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about giraffes and their care. Understand their behaviour, diet, and habitat needs. This will show your passion for the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience with hoof stock species. Prepare specific examples of how you've maintained high standards of husbandry and enclosure management. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Team Player Mindset
Highlight your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in past roles, especially in a zoo or safari park setting. This is crucial for fitting into their diverse team.
✨Engage with Guest Experiences
Think about how you can create memorable experiences for visitors. Prepare ideas or examples of how you've previously engaged guests or educated them about animals. This will show your commitment to delivering informative experiences.
