Animal Keeper

Welsh Mountain Zoo; Colwyn Bay; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay is seeking an experienced Animal Keeper to join a committed team in caring for exotic species. The role offers full-time hours and a salary of £26,171 per annum, with opportunities to contribute to conservation initiatives in a North Wales setting.

You will work under the Head of Animals and Animal Team Leaders to maintain high standards of animal care, welfare and educational outreach, including talks and demonstrations for visitors.

Qualifications

• Significant practical experience working with a wide range of species in a zoo or wildlife park setting.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry, behaviour, enrichment and welfare principles.
• Knowledge and application of positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Proficiency in monitoring health and behaviour and reporting observations.
• Working towards/holding a relevant qualification in animal care or related field.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily husbandry including feeding and enrichment for a variety of exotic species.
• Safely move, catch and restrain animals using correct techniques and equipment.
• Assist in the treatment and medication of animals.
• Clean and maintain habitats to encourage natural behaviours and breeding.
• Monitor animal health and behaviour and report observations.
• Deliver educational and engaging talks and demonstrations on various species.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team and support wider zoo operations as required.
• Work on a rota over 7 days (weekends and bank holidays) with late lock-ups as required.
• Complete mandatory training and ongoing professional development.
• Ensure work aligns with policies and procedures including Animal Welfare, GDPR, Health & Safety, Security, Finance, People, and Volunteering.

Skills

Practical experience

Animal welfare

Positive reinforcement

Health monitoring

Communication skills

Teamwork

Firearms training

Customer service

Physical fitness

Education

Diploma in Animal Management

Job description

Animal Keeper

Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay

Full-time Salary: £26,171 per annum

Working at the Welsh Mountain Zoo is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to be part of a committed, expert team united by a shared passion: Bringing Conservation to Life. And there’s nowhere better to do that than in the breathtaking surroundings of North Wales.

For over 60 years, we’ve been caring for rare and endangered animal and plant species, engaging the public, and inspiring the next generation of conservationists. Now, as we enter an exciting period of growth and investment in our zoo, we’re looking for a skilled and motivated Cover Keeper.

You’ll work closely with our Head of Animals and Animal Team Leaders, helping to ensure the highest standards of animal care and team coordination.

What you’ll bring:

• Significant practical experience gained from working closely with a wide range of species in a zoo/wildlife park setting
• Knowledgeable in science and evidence based animal husbandry, behaviour, breeding, enrichment, and welfare principles
• Knowledge and practical application of positive reinforcement training techniques
• Proficient in monitoring animal health and behaviour – recording and reporting observations
• Working towards/holds a relevant qualification in animal care or a related field (e.g. Diploma or higher in Animal Management)
• Holds excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Comfortable working as part of a team, but also working unsupervised
• Working towards/able to deploy firearms in emergency situation
• Able to deliver exceptional levels of customer service
• Good verbal and written communication skills to effectively report findings and coordinate with team members.
• Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and handling animals

Key responsibilities include:

• Provide daily husbandry including feeding & enrichment for a variety of exotic species
• Safely move, catch and restrain animals using the correct techniques and equipment
• Assist in the treatment and medication of animals
• Clean and maintain habitats to encourage natural behaviours and breeding
• Monitor animal health and behaviour – recording and reporting observations
• Delivering educational and engaging talks and demonstrations on a variety of species
• Work collaboratively as part of a team, supporting wider zoo operations as required
• Work on a rota over 7 days (including weekends and bank holidays), with late lock-ups as required
• Complete all mandatory training and continuing professional development
• Ensure all work aligns with our policies and procedures, including those relating to Animal Welfare, GDPR, Health and Safety, Security, Finance, People, and Volunteering

If you’re passionate about animal welfare and conservation, looking to take your first step into a management role, and excited to help shape the future of a growing zoo – we’d love to hear from you.

Closing date: 23rd October 2026