At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise animal care, engage with visitors, and manage daily operations for optimal welfare.
- Company: Join the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, a leading wildlife conservation charity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 34 days leave, healthcare plan, and free zoo entry for you and loved ones.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to equal opportunities and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while working with amazing animals.
- Qualifications: Professional qualification in animal management and knowledge of zoological best practices required.
The predicted salary is between 32469 - 32469 £ per year.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is a wildlife conservation charity with a bold vision: a world where nature is protected, valued and loved.
Responsibilities
- Supervise delivery of the day‑to‑day operations of the allocated animal section and all related animal projects, aiming to optimise animal welfare and visitor experience, and to support delivery of an innovative and engaging programme of live animal interactive activities.
- Supervise all aspects of the day‑to‑day operation of the allocated animal section, including rota management, staff development and signing off completed sections.
- Ensure animal welfare, husbandry and management is of the highest standard, taking into account relevant legislation and best practice.
- Contribute to enclosure design, supervise maintenance, enrichment and habitat furnishing so that it meets the animals' needs and is presentable to the public; suggest development ideas to the team manager.
- Engage with and support visitors, ensuring the message is consistent with team objectives and RZSS’ mission; provide first‑class customer care, answer queries and undertake public talks, tours and experiences.
- Collate and record detailed animal records, including enrichment and training plans, and ensure accurate data (weights, behaviours, births, deaths, treatments) can be input to the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) or other relevant databases; support other teams with assessment or analysis of ZIMS or field data when needed.
- Supervise, motivate, develop and review team members, following good management practice and working within HR policy guidelines so their performance meets or exceeds agreed performance standards.
Qualifications
- Professional qualification meeting the requirements of the European Professional Zookeepers Qualification Framework, e.g. Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA), or equivalent qualifications and experience.
- Knowledge and understanding of zoological legislation and best practice.
- Knowledge and skills of good animal management.
- Working knowledge of ZIMS and other zoo‑related management systems is desirable.
- Competency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Benefits
- Starting pro‑rated salary of £29,131 or £29,859 (offer based on experience) with future progression up to £32,469 per annum.
- 34 days annual leave (pro rata).
- Discounts in retail and catering.
- Access to a healthcare plan.
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing 24‑hour counselling and support, including health, legal, finance, wellbeing and family advice.
- Employer contributory pension scheme.
- Staff membership giving free (and discounted) entry for you and family/friends to Highland Wildlife Park, Edinburgh Zoo and other zoos across the UK.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland is an equal opportunities employer. Our policy is to recruit a diverse workforce following the guidelines of the Equality Act 2010.
Senior Animal Keeper employer: Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture centred around wildlife conservation and community engagement. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and comprehensive employee benefits including a healthcare plan and pension scheme, RZSS prioritises the well-being and professional development of its staff. Working at RZSS not only provides the opportunity to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts but also allows for personal growth in a supportive environment dedicated to animal welfare and visitor experience.
Contact Details:
Royal Zoological Society of Scotland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Animal Keeper
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Royal Zoological Society of Scotland often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Animal Keeper
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Royal Zoological Society of Scotland does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Royal Zoological Society of Scotland will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.
