Zookeeper - Primates in Dunstable

ZSL is seeking a dedicated Zookeeper within the primate 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 species, including chimpanzees, Sulawesi crested macaques, babirusas and red pandas. 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.

We have two full-time positions available, each working 37.5 hours per week: one offered on a 12-month fixed-term contract and the other on an 18-month fixed-term contract. As our zoos are open seven days a week, your schedule will follow a rota, which includes weekends and bank holidays. We aim to balance business needs with personal flexibility, so you’ll have advance notice of your shifts to help plan your time.

Key responsibilities

• Food Preparation: Preparation of approved diets and carrying out 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 Team Leader or Section Manager.

About You

• Desirable to have 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.
• 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, 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.
• Holds a full, valid UK Driving Licence.

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of under-represented 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.

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. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

What We Offer

• Purpose-driven work – join an organisation where every role contributes to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
• 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 (increasing with milestone anniversaries).
• Access to ZSL’s staff Equality Networks – Race & Culture, Team Pride, Disability, and Menopause, supporting an inclusive and welcoming workplace for those with lived experience.
• 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.

We may close this role early or extend the closing date due to the number of applications we receive, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. We anonymise applications until interview stage to ensure a fair hiring process. It’s important to highlight your unique skills, experience, and knowledge. Over reliance on AI-generated content may miss key criteria outlined in the job description and reduce the effectiveness of your application. If you have any questions about this role, we’d love to hear from you! Please get in touch with our recruitment team at recruitment@zsl.org.