Zookeeper – Domestics

ZSL is seeking a dedicated Zookeeper within the Domestics section of our Animal Department at Whipsnade Zoo, one of the UK’s largest zoos nestled in the beautiful Chiltern Hills. In this role, you’ll be a part of a dedicated and passionate team of zookeepers who are committed to continually improving welfare and husbandry for a diverse range of domestic species. The section cares for a variety of rare and traditional breeds recognised by the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST), including Dartmoor Ponies, Shetland Cattle, Middle White Pigs, Bagot goats, Guernsey goats, English goats, Soay sheep, Manx Loagthan sheep and Grey Faced Dartmoor sheep. The team also manages a large herd of Soay sheep, Bagot and Cashmere goats for conservation grazing across our site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). As a vital team member, you will ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry, play an active role in enrichment and training programmes, and help create engaging experiences for visitors. You will work closely with the section manager, team leader, and colleagues, supporting all aspects of daily care and conservation efforts for these amazing species. This role is offered on a permanent contract working 37.5 hours per week. As our zoos are open seven days a week, your schedule will follow a rota, which includes weekends and bank holidays. We aim to balance business needs with personal flexibility, so you’ll have advance notice of your shifts to help plan your time.

Key responsibilities

• Food Preparation: Preparation of approved diets and carrying out feeding procedures.
• Hygiene and Cleaning: Maintaining the highest standards of hygiene by cleaning and maintaining exhibits, equipment, and other designated areas.
• Husbandry and Enrichment: Contribute to the development of high standards of husbandry and welfare, developing innovative, enriching, and aesthetic enclosures with the team.
• Animal Observation: Observe the behaviour, health, and security of animals and report concerns and problems to Lead Keepers or Section Manager.

About You

• Successfully completed the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA), or an equivalent qualification.
• Practical experience working with animals in a zoo or aquarium, ideally managing exotic species.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, with a positive and flexible approach to physical, hands-on work.
• Demonstrates initiative and a proactive, sustainable approach to completing tasks that benefit the department, maximising productivity and efficiency.
• Can work effectively both as part of a team and independently to carry out section tasks.
• Demonstrates professionalism through punctuality, reliability, integrity, and a diligent work ethic.
• Hold a full, valid UK Driving Licence.

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of under-represented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.

What We Offer

• Purpose driven work – join an organisation where every role contributes to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
• Pension scheme – we offer a generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
• Flexible working – talk to us about your flexible working requirements and we will do everything we can to make sure you work in a way that suits you.
• Holidays – 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays (increasing with milestone anniversaries).
• Access to ZSL’s staff Equality Networks – Race & Culture, Team Pride, Disability, and Menopause, supporting an inclusive and welcoming workplace for those with lived experience.
• Wellbeing – access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Life assurance – eligible employees will be enrolled in ZSL’s life assurance scheme from their first day.
• Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30% discount in online and retail shops.
• Cycle2Work – our cycle to work scheme enables you to lease a bicycle.
• Season ticket loan – we offer an interest-free loan for eligible London-based employees to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work.
• Family friendly policies – we offer enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages.