At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for exotic animals and engage with guests to enhance their experience.
- Company: Longleat Safari Park, a unique blend of wildlife and history.
- Benefits: 29 days holiday, free entry, discounts, and flexible working schemes.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic setting with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create unforgettable moments in a stunning environment.
- Qualifications: 18 months experience with animals and at least 5 GCSEs.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
About the role: Longleat is seeking an experienced and committed Animal Keeper to join our Safari Team and help us continue our tradition of hiring engaged and productive employees. Discover a captivating array of species at the Safari Park, from majestic giraffes and formidable rhinos to striking zebras and majestic tigers. And, of course, don't miss the iconic lions of Longleat. As a member of our animal team, you'll report to the Lead Keeper and immerse yourself in the world of animal care. Your responsibilities will include maintaining our animal houses and enclosures to the utmost standard of excellence. Beyond the daily husbandry tasks, your role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of our park. You'll patrol various animal areas throughout the day, prioritising the safety of both our guests and animals. Moreover, you will be engaging with our guests, enhancing their experience with top-notch customer service. Join us in delivering unforgettable moments at the Safari Park, where every day is an adventure.
Key duties will include:
- Carry out animal husbandry routines, environmental enrichment, animal observations and record data.
- Report and advise on husbandry and safety matters to lead keepers and team managers.
- Participate in educational and VIP initiatives.
- Ensure Health and Safety standards and administration is adhered to by following risk assessments and standard operating procedures.
- Engage guests during course of duties in line with culture of exceptional customer service.
- Carry out maintenance on our animal houses and enclosures to the highest standard.
- Patrol various animal areas throughout the day.
About you: You must have a full UK driving licence to apply for this position. You must have at least 18 months' experience working with exotic animals or domestic livestock. You will have proven evidence of your interest and commitment to zoo and wildlife husbandry. You will have gained at least 5 GCSEs or equivalent. You will have excellent communication skills allowing you to easily liaise with guests and colleagues across a variety of levels.
Your contract: You will work hours to vary over a 7 day rota basis, including weekends, evenings and bank holidays as required. The earliest start time is 8am, and the latest finish time is 8pm, varying in accordance with opening times.
A little about us: At Longleat we offer a day out like no other, our guests are invited to step into the Thynn family home where they will find the finest example of Elizabethan Architecture. They are also immersed into the wild side, where they can visit over 120 species of animals by car, foot, train, bus, and boat. With a core business welcoming around 1 million guests every year, we are passionate about providing unforgettable experiences that bring family and friends together to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why join the Longleat team? In this unique work environment, you will be surrounded by historic landscapes and listed buildings, all whilst listening to our lions roar and wolves howl. You will even have the opportunity to visit our adorable Koalas and cheeky meerkats during your lunch break. You will receive attractive benefits that include:
- 29 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays, rising to 31 days at 5 years’ service.
- Unlimited free entry to Longleat for our employees.
- Complimentary tickets to Longleat and Cheddar Gorge and Caves, 18 per annum pro rata.
- 50% off Membership for Friends and Family.
- Discounts on food and beverages and retail merchandise.
- Discounts on VIP Experiences and Accommodation.
- Discretionary bonus scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Employer contributory pension scheme.
- Life assurance scheme.
- Perks at work.
- Range of flexible working schemes.
Animal Keeper (Safari) employer: Longleat Enterprises Ltd
Contact Detail:
Longleat Enterprises Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Keeper (Safari)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Longleat and its animals! Research the species we have, especially the iconic lions and other exotic animals. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in our park.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since engaging with guests is a big part of the role, try role-playing scenarios with friends or family. This will help you feel more confident when interacting with visitors at the park.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your experience! Think of specific examples from your past roles that highlight your animal husbandry skills and customer service. We love hearing about real-life experiences that demonstrate your passion for animal care.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Longleat. Don’t miss out on this adventure!
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Keeper (Safari)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animals: When writing your application, let your love for animals shine through! Share any experiences you've had with exotic animals or livestock, and explain why you're committed to animal care. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about the well-being of our furry friends.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure your CV and cover letter are tailored specifically for the Animal Keeper role. Highlight relevant experience, skills, and qualifications that match the job description. We appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their background to what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We want to easily understand your qualifications and enthusiasm without sifting through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing team at Longleat. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Longleat Enterprises Ltd
✨Know Your Animals
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of the species at Longleat. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, habitats, and care requirements. This will not only show your passion for animal husbandry but also demonstrate that you’re ready to engage with guests about these magnificent creatures.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience with exotic animals or livestock in detail. Highlight specific examples of your husbandry routines, any environmental enrichment initiatives you've implemented, and how you've ensured safety standards in your past roles. This will help the interviewers see your hands-on skills and commitment.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
Since guest interaction is a key part of the role, practice how you would engage with visitors. Think of ways to make their experience memorable while sharing your knowledge about the animals. A friendly and enthusiastic attitude can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing conservation efforts, or how they measure success in animal care. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if Longleat is the right fit for you.