Animal Keeper

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); Greater London; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Welsh Mountain Zoo is seeking a motivated Cover Keeper to join our dedicated conservation team in Colwyn Bay. You will support animal care, enrichment, and welfare, working closely with the Head of Animals and team leaders to uphold high standards of care.

You should have significant zoo experience, welfare knowledge, and strong communication skills to coordinate with colleagues and deliver engaging talks to visitors.

Qualifications

• Significant practical experience with a wide range of species in a zoo/wildlife park setting.
• Knowledgeable in animal husbandry, welfare, enrichment and breeding principles.
• Knowledge and application of positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team and unsupervised.
• Comfortable with physically demanding tasks and lifting.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily husbandry including feeding and enrichment for exotic species.
• Safely move, catch and restrain animals using proper techniques.
• Assist in treatment and medication of animals.
• Clean and maintain habitats to encourage natural behaviours.
• Monitor health and behaviour and report observations.
• Deliver educational talks and demonstrations on species.

Skills

Significant practical experience

Animal care knowledge

Positive reinforcement training

Communication skills

Teamwork & collaboration

Ability to work unsupervised

Physical fitness for tasks

Education

Diploma or higher in Animal Management

Job description

Welsh Mountain Zoo - National Zoological Society of Wales

Wales Closing date for applications is: 23rd Oct 2026

Contact: Georgia Hughes - HR Manager at Welsh Mountain Zoo ([e-mail]) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: 26,171

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