At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for rare breeds, ensure animal welfare, and create engaging visitor experiences.
- Company: Join ZSL, a leading conservation organisation at Whipsnade Zoo.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days holiday, and complimentary zoo tickets.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in wildlife conservation while working with amazing animals.
- Qualifications: Zookeeper qualification or equivalent experience with a passion for animal care.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
ZSL is seeking a dedicated Zookeeper within the Domestics section of our Animal Department at Whipsnade Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos in the Chiltern Hills. The team cares for rare and traditional breeds recognised by the Rare Breed Survival Trust (e.g. Dartmoor Ponies, Shetland Cattle, Middle White Pigs, Bagot goats, etc.) and manages a large herd of Soay sheep, Bagot and Cashmere goats for conservation grazing across the site of Special Scientific Interest. The role involves ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry, contributing to enrichment and training programmes, creating engaging experiences for visitors, and supporting daily care and conservation efforts. This is a permanent contract position, 37.5 hours per week, with a rota that includes weekends and bank holidays.
Key responsibilities
- Food Preparation: Prepare approved diets and carry out feeding procedures.
- Hygiene and Cleaning: Maintain the highest standards of hygiene by cleaning and maintaining exhibits, equipment and other designated areas.
- Husbandry and Enrichment: Contribute to high standards of husbandry and welfare, developing innovative, enriching and aesthetic enclosures with the team.
- Animal Observation: Observe 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, 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.
- Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, with a positive and flexible approach to physical, hands‑on work.
- Demonstrates initiative and a proactive, sustainable approach to completing tasks that benefit the department, maximizing 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.
- Holds a full, valid UK driving licence.
Pre‑employment checks and immigration
This role is subject to standard pre‑employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
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 – up to 12 % contributory pension.
- Flexible working – discuss flexible working requirements with managers.
- Holidays – 25 days annual leave plus UK bank holidays (increasing with milestone anniversaries).
- Equality networks – access to ZSL’s staff equality networks.
- Wellbeing – access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to a 24/7 employee assistance programme.
- Life assurance – eligible employees will be enrolled in the life assurance scheme from day one.
- Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30 % discount in online and retail shops.
- Cycle2Work – the cycle‑to‑work scheme lets you lease a bicycle.
- Season ticket loan – interest‑free loan for eligible London‑based employees to buy a season ticket for travel.
- Family‑friendly policies – enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption packages.
Zookeeper - Domestics in City of Westminster employer: Zoological Society of London
ZSL is an exceptional employer, offering a purpose-driven work environment where every role contributes to wildlife conservation at Whipsnade Zoo. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working options, and generous benefits including a contributory pension scheme and family-friendly policies, ZSL fosters a supportive and inclusive culture that encourages professional growth and celebrates diversity among its staff.
Contact Details:
Zoological Society of London Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Zookeeper - Domestics in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo! Before your interview, spend some time at Whipsnade Zoo. Familiarise yourself with the animals and their habitats. This shows your genuine interest and helps you connect with the team during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on experience! When you're talking about your past roles, highlight any practical work you've done with animals. Whether it's feeding, cleaning, or observing behaviour, make sure to share specific examples that demonstrate your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for a practical assessment! Zookeeper roles often involve hands-on tasks. Brush up on your animal husbandry skills and be prepared to showcase your knowledge of animal care during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows you're keen on joining our team and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application. Plus, you'll get all the latest updates on the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Zookeeper - Domestics in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Animals:When writing your application, let your love for animals shine through! Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your dedication to animal welfare and conservation. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about the creatures you'll be working with.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Zookeeper role specifically. Highlight relevant qualifications, like your Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship or any hands-on experience with animals. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their skills to what we do at ZSL.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We want to easily understand your qualifications and experiences, so make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our organisation there. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zoological Society of London
✨Know Your Animals
Familiarise yourself with the specific breeds and species you'll be working with, especially those mentioned in the job description like Dartmoor Ponies and Soay sheep. Understanding their behaviours, needs, and conservation status will show your passion and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your practical experience with animals, particularly in a zoo or similar environment. Highlight any relevant qualifications, like the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme, and share specific examples of how you've contributed to animal welfare and husbandry.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This role requires teamwork, so be prepared to talk about your experiences working collaboratively. Share examples of how you've supported colleagues or contributed to team projects, especially in high-pressure situations or during busy periods.
✨Emphasise Your Work Ethic
ZSL values professionalism, so convey your reliability and integrity. Discuss your punctuality and how you approach tasks with a proactive mindset. Mention any instances where you've gone above and beyond to ensure animal welfare or improve processes.
