Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for over 70 animal species and enhance visitor experiences at Tilgate Zoo.
- Company: Join the award-winning Tilgate Park, a top tourist attraction.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, wellbeing incentives, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare 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 with opportunities for career growth in a dynamic team.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
- Interview date: 27 October 2025 – 31 October 2025
We have an exciting opportunity for a zookeeper at Tilgate Zoo where we are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate individual to join our team.
Tilgate Park is a top tourist attraction having been inducted into the Trip Advisor Hall of Fame. The park, of which the zoo is one element, receives upwards of 750,000 visitors per year.
As part of a dynamic team caring for a collection of over 70 species (mammals, birds and ectotherms) you will be involved in all aspects of the zoo operation, from visitor experience and enclosure design, through to animal welfare and conservation.
You will be a highly motivated and knowledgeable individual who ideally holds a Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or equivalent qualification.
As a small collection, you will be working with a range of domestic and exotic species (including farm stock, ring-tailed lemur, Andean condor, serval, Madagascan boa, naked mole rat) in supporting the highest standards of animal husbandry.
Your roles and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, all aspects of animal husbandry, enclosure and site maintenance whilst upholding the highest standards of health and safety.
You will work as part of a small team of dedicated colleagues reporting to the Senior Zookeeper and Zoo Manager.
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.
Additional information
The post includes weekend work, though a working pattern that will be discussed at interview.
For all posts, evening, weekend, Bank Holidays and ‘rest day’ working may be required to cover essential services, for which you will be paid a 14% enhancement.
A full and current UK driving licence will be a requirement of the role.
Satisfactory clearance of a Basic Disclosure and Barring Check (DBS) will be a condition of your employment.
Employee benefits
We offer a generous employee benefits package , with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.
Our way of working
Our shared values and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match.
Safer recruitment
Crawley Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.
How to apply
Click the Apply button to complete your application online. 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. Please note that CVs will not be accepted without a fully completed application form.
For an informal conversation or further information regarding the role, emailsam.whitbread@crawley.gov.uk , Zoo Manager or call on 07350 438397.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Tilgate Park Zookeeper employer: Crawley Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Crawley Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Tilgate Park Zookeeper
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before your interview, spend some time researching Tilgate Zoo and its unique species. This will show your passion and enthusiasm for the role, making you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common zookeeper interview questions and think about how your experiences align with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We want you to feel confident when discussing your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your team spirit! Since you'll be working closely with a small team, highlight your teamwork skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've collaborated effectively in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of landing that dream job at Tilgate Zoo!
We think you need these skills to ace Tilgate Park Zookeeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to explore our website and get familiar with Tilgate Zoo. Understanding our values and mission will help you tailor your application to show how you fit into our team.
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for animal care and conservation shine through. Share any relevant experiences or qualifications that demonstrate your commitment to animal welfare and the zoo environment.
Be Thorough: Make sure to fill out every section of the application form completely. We want to know all about your background, skills, and experiences, so don’t leave any gaps. Remember, we won’t accept CVs without a completed application form!
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We might close the advert early if we receive enough applications, so it’s best to apply as soon as you can to secure your chance at this exciting role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Crawley Borough Council
✨Know Your Animals
Brush up on your knowledge of the species you'll be working with at Tilgate Zoo. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, habitats, and care requirements. This 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, as this will resonate well with the dynamic team environment at the zoo.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Conservation
Conservation is a key aspect of zoo operations. Be ready to talk about any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that support wildlife conservation. This shows that you align with the zoo's mission and values.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the zoo's operations, future projects, or team dynamics. This not only demonstrates your interest in the role but also helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
