At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch veterinary care for wildlife at ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos.
- Company: Join ZSL, a leader in wildlife conservation and veterinary excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to wildlife conservation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife health while advancing your veterinary career.
- Qualifications: RCVS membership and experience with zoo and wild animals required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We are looking for a skilled and dedicated Veterinary Officer to join our Wildlife Health Services team, delivering exceptional clinical care across both ZSL London and Whipsnade Conservation Zoos. The Veterinary Officer will support the delivery of clinical veterinary services by the Wildlife Health Services (WHS) team across both ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Conservation Zoos. Reporting to the Veterinary Manager (VM), the Veterinary Officer (VO) will support the health and welfare of all animals in ZSL collections, predominantly as a clinician working at both zoos. The role will also represent ZSL as a centre of excellence in the veterinary care of zoo and wild animals.
Key responsibilities
- Deliver high-standard veterinary care (preventive, diagnostic, treatment, disease surveillance, and post‑mortems) at ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos.
- Work closely with curatorial, animal management, and wider teams to support animal health, welfare, and ZSL’s strategic goals.
- Lead, contribute to, and publish clinical research in peer‑reviewed journals and other academic platforms to enhance ZSL’s profile.
- Assist with teaching and mentoring students (tracking, MSc, ECZM ZHM residents, etc.) through ZSL, the RVC, and partner institutions to build global wildlife health expertise.
- Produce timely clinical, pathological, and welfare reports to enable informed decision‑making and continuous care improvement.
About You
- Membership in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
- Proven experience in veterinary care of zoo and wild animals across a range of species.
- Experience using remote drug‑delivery firearms and systems.
- Knowledge of relevant legislation related to zoo licensing, animal health, health & safety, firearms, and veterinary medicines.
- Familiarity with managing competing priorities and delegating effectively.
- Working knowledge and skills of IT systems including MS Office packages, ZIMS, etc.
- A full driving license is required for this role.
This role requires standard pre‑employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. A DBS check is also required for this position, and you must be eligible for possession of a firearms licence. ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented 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.
Benefits
- Purpose driven work – join an organisation where every role contributes to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
- Pension scheme – generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
- Flexible working – we discuss flexible working requirements to suit 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.
- Wellbeing – blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Life assurance – eligible employees enrolled 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 – cycle to work scheme enables leasing a bicycle.
- Season ticket loan – interest‑free loan for eligible London‑based employees to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work.
- Family friendly policies – enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages.
Veterinary Officer in Harrow employer: Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
ZSL is an exceptional employer for Veterinary Officers, offering a unique opportunity to work at both ZSL London and Whipsnade Conservation Zoos, where your contributions directly impact wildlife health and conservation efforts. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive culture that values diversity, ZSL fosters an environment where you can thrive professionally while making a meaningful difference in the world. Additionally, the chance to engage in clinical research and mentor future veterinarians enhances your career growth within a purpose-driven organisation.
Contact Detail:
Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Officer in Harrow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow veterinary professionals, especially those in wildlife health. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your clinical work, research, and any teaching experiences. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on how your experience aligns with ZSL's mission and values to impress the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the ZSL team and contributing to wildlife conservation.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Officer in Harrow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Wildlife:When writing your application, let your love for wildlife and veterinary care shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role and how it aligns with our mission at ZSL.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in veterinary care, especially with zoo and wild animals. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and knowledge in this area.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially regarding zoo and wild animals. Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with at ZSL, and be ready to discuss any relevant legislation or health protocols.
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
ZSL is all about wildlife conservation, so let your passion shine through! Share any experiences you've had in conservation efforts or how you’ve contributed to animal welfare in previous roles. This will show that you align with their mission.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about real-life scenarios you might face as a Veterinary Officer. Think about how you would handle emergencies, disease outbreaks, or complex cases. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing research projects, or how they support professional development. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
