Africa Section Keeper

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); London; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A zoo in the South West is seeking a skilled Animal Keeper for the Africa Section. The role requires daily care of animals including White Rhino and Giraffe, and demands relevant practical experience and an animal-based qualification. This full-time position offers a supportive work environment with flexible hours. Salary ranges from £24,211.20 to £26,457.60 per annum.

Qualifications

• Previous experience with species like Rhino, Giraffe, and Zebra.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team.
• Full driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Daily care, feeding, enrichment, and observation of animals.
• Enclosure cleaning, maintenance, and safety checks.
• Assisting with training programmes.

Skills

Practical experience with relevant species or similar

Good communication and teamwork skills

High standards of hygiene

Education

An animal-based qualification

Job description

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm

South West Closing date for applications is: 31st Aug 2025

Contact: Chris Wilkinson ([e-mail]) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: Level 1 Keeper – £24,211.20 per annum (£11.64/hour) Level 2 Keeper – £26,457.60 per annum (£12.72/hour)

Animal Keeper – Africa Section

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is seeking a skilled and reliable Animal Keeper to join our Africa Section team on a full-time basis. This role is 40 hours per week on a flexible rota, including weekends and bank holidays.

The position involves all aspects of daily animal care across the section, which currently includes White Rhino, Giraffe, Zebra, Ostrich, Rhea, and Pygmy Goats. Applicants must have previous experience with at least some of these species (or similar), a high standard of animal husbandry, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Essential Requirements

• Practical experience with relevant species or similar.
• An animal-based qualification.
• High standards of hygiene.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• A full driving licence.
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Daily care, feeding, enrichment, and observation of animals.
• Enclosure cleaning, maintenance, and safety checks.
• Assisting with training programmes.
• Delivering talks and encounters to visitors.
• Driving company vehicles to collect feed, bedding, and veterinary supplies.
  
  

Salary

• Level 1 Keeper – £24,211.20 per annum (£11.64/hour)
• Level 2 Keeper – £26,457.60 per annum (£12.72/hour)
  
  

Apply For This Job

How to apply:

Email your CV and covering letter (maximum one side of A4 / 400 words) to [e-mail] with the subject line: Animal Keeper – Africa.

Your Application Should Include

• A summary of relevant experience.
• Full employment history.
• If your background is with other zoo species, an explanation of your interest in working with our Africa Section animals.
  
  

Closing date: 31 August 2025

Interview Process

• Stage 1: Zoom interview.
• Stage 2: Selected candidates will be invited to the zoo for a trial shift on the section and a second interview.