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- Tasks: Care for amazing predators like lions and tigers while ensuring their welfare.
- Company: Join ZSL, a leading conservation charity dedicated to saving wildlife.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and complimentary zoo tickets.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in animal conservation while working with passionate colleagues.
- Qualifications: Must have relevant qualifications and practical experience with exotic animals.
- Other info: Diversity is celebrated; all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
ZSL is seeking a dedicated Zookeeper within the Predator section of our Animal Department at Whipsnade Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos nestled in the beautiful Chiltern Hills. This exciting opportunity involves caring for an incredible range of mammals, including African lions, Amur tigers, African wild dogs, brown bears, Northern cheetah, lynx, wolverine, short-clawed otters, aardvark, porcupine, and meerkats.
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 as a 12-month contract, working 20 hours per week.
Key responsibilities:
- Food Preparation: Preparation of approved diets and the carrying out of 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.
- 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 the candidate's right to work in the UK. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage. We are committed to ensuring our teams can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination.
About Us:
We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this.
What do we offer?
- Our vision and purpose - you’ll work alongside colleagues who are passionate about science-led conservation, knowing that you will help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.
- 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.
- 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.
NB: We reserve the right to close our advertisement early or extend the advertising date until a suitable candidate has been found.
Zookeeper - Predators employer: Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
Contact Detail:
Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Zookeeper - Predators
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with, such as African lions and Amur tigers. Understanding their behaviours, dietary needs, and habitat requirements will not only impress during interviews but also show your genuine passion for animal welfare.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former zookeepers to gain insights into the role and the organisation. They can provide valuable information about the work culture at ZSL and may even offer tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any practical experience you have with exotic animals, especially in a zoo setting. If you've volunteered or interned at a zoo, make sure to discuss your hands-on experiences and what you learned from them.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your commitment to conservation and animal welfare in your conversations. ZSL values candidates who share their mission, so be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with their goals of preventing wildlife extinction.
We think you need these skills to ace Zookeeper - Predators
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any practical work with exotic animals. Include specific examples of your responsibilities and achievements in previous roles that align with the Zookeeper - Predators position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for animal welfare and conservation. Mention your qualifications, such as the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or DMZAA, and explain how they prepare you for this role.
Highlight Teamwork and Initiative: In your application, emphasise your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Provide examples of how you've demonstrated initiative in past roles, particularly in improving animal care or enhancing visitor experiences.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial in a role like this.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
✨Know Your Animals
Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with, especially the predators mentioned in the job description. Understanding their behaviours, diets, and habitats will show your passion and preparedness for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your practical experience with animals, particularly exotic species. Highlight any relevant qualifications, such as the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or similar, to showcase your expertise.
✨Showcase Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves working closely with a team, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles. Emphasise your ability to work both independently and as part of a team to achieve common goals.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Welfare
Express your dedication to animal welfare and conservation efforts. Discuss any initiatives you've been involved in that demonstrate your proactive approach to improving animal care and enriching their environments.
