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- Tasks: Care for amazing large carnivores and engage with the public through talks and encounters.
- Company: Join a world-renowned wild animal park dedicated to conservation and animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, training opportunities, and discounts on food and accommodation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while working with incredible animals.
- Qualifications: 3 years' experience with large carnivores and strong animal husbandry skills required.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a supportive team environment await you!
The predicted salary is between 24500 - 31500 £ per year.
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve in Kent is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced individual to join our team of dedicated large carnivore keepers. As part of the large carnivore team, you will be responsible for looking after our Amur Tigers, Amur leopard, Sri Lankan leopard, Brown bears, Andean bears, African lions, African painted dogs, Southern cheetah and European Grey wolves. This is a full time permanent position with a salary up to £29,500.00 per annum DOE, plus desirable benefits.
Responsibilities
- You will undertake all animal husbandry duties including feeding and cleaning as well as enclosure furnishing, maintenance tasks, gardening, butchery, and record keeping.
- You will be expected to lead talks and animal encounters to the public.
- The role requires a practical and safety conscious approach to working with these species and a hands-on approach to the restraint and handling of animals where necessary.
- You will be involved in enrichment activities to contribute to the wellbeing of all species on the section.
Qualifications and Skills
- Hands-on experience working with large carnivores, ideally with at least 3 years’ experience in a recognized zoological collection.
- Ability to work around all types of carnivores with a hands-on approach to restraint and handling where necessary.
- Strong animal husbandry skills and a safety-conscious mindset.
- Experience in enclosure maintenance, general maintenance/carpentry skills, trailer driving, strimmer experience, and a Zoo animal Management qualification is advantageous.
- Conservation education experience, including leading talks and public encounters.
- Physically fit for a demanding role.
- A full valid driving licence is essential.
- A reliable mode of transport is necessary due to the remote location.
Contract Details
This is a full-time, permanent position working 40 hours per week, five days out of seven, including weekends and bank holidays. A flexible approach to working hours is essential in any animal job. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Location: Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is a world-renowned wild animal park set within 600 acres of Kentish savannah. The Reserve is home to some of the world’s most rare and endangered animals and offers luxury short-break accommodation, free roaming animal safaris, animal encounters and dining experiences. Our employees contribute to conservation in action with partners at The Aspinall Foundation.
Why You Should Join Us
- You will be part of a supportive team who are passionate about our place of work, with opportunities to develop professionally through extensive staff training.
- Benefits include: 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays, rising with length of service (pro-rata to start date and working hours).
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including workshops and e-learning.
- Enhanced sickness, maternity, and paternity policies.
- Unlimited free entry for you and a person of your choice into both parks, plus friends and family tickets.
- Discounts on food, retail, and accommodation at our parks.
- Access to a 24-hour counselling line through Healthy Extras Scheme and other retail discounts.
- Other length-of-service related rewards and benefits.
Please email your C.V. and covering letter to recruitment@howlettsandportlympne.com
Application and Closing
Closing Date: 23 February 2026. Interviews will take place as applications are received and may close early if a suitable candidate is found.
Experienced Animal Keeper – Large Carnivores in Hythe employer: Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
Contact Detail:
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Experienced Animal Keeper – Large Carnivores in Hythe
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Port Lympne and its large carnivore team. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect with them during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on experience! When you’re in the interview, share specific stories about your time working with large carnivores. Highlight any unique challenges you faced and how you tackled them.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for practical questions! Since this role is all about animal husbandry and safety, expect some scenario-based questions. Think through your approach to handling animals and maintaining enclosures.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Show your enthusiasm by asking about the team’s conservation efforts or enrichment activities. It’ll demonstrate your passion for the role and the animals you'll be caring for.
We think you need these skills to ace Experienced Animal Keeper – Large Carnivores in Hythe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with large carnivores shine through. We want to see your genuine love for animals and conservation, so share any relevant experiences that highlight this passion.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your hands-on experience with large carnivores and any specific skills that match the job description. We’re looking for those unique qualities that make you the perfect fit for our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the one we need. Be sure to mention your relevant experience, your approach to animal husbandry, and how you can contribute to our mission at Port Lympne. Keep it engaging and personal!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of large carnivores, especially the specific species mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss their behaviours, habitats, and conservation status will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past roles where you've worked directly with large carnivores. Highlight any relevant skills like animal husbandry, enclosure maintenance, or public engagement that align with what they’re looking for.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Since safety is crucial when working with large carnivores, be ready to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work. Share any experiences where you had to handle animals safely or manage risks effectively.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for conservation and education. Be prepared to talk about how you would lead talks and animal encounters, as this role involves engaging with the public and sharing your passion for wildlife.
