Animal Team Leader – Birds & Ectotherms

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Wales; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading conservation organization in Wales seeks an experienced Animal Team Leader to guide a dedicated team in animal welfare and conservation efforts. The role involves managing bird and ectotherm departments, ensuring best practices in care, and inspiring a team of keepers. Candidates should have significant experience in zoo settings and relevant qualifications. Join us in making a difference in conservation.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a zoo or wildlife park.
• Solid knowledge of evidence-based animal care.
• Evidence of professional development related to birds or ectotherms.

Responsibilities

• Leading a team of Animal Keepers and volunteers.
• Managing bird and ectotherm departments.
• Implementing best practices in animal care.

Skills

Experience with EAZA/BIAZA collections

Expertise in birds

Expertise in ectotherms

Evidence-based animal care

Line management

Strong IT literacy

Education

Level 3 Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals

Job description

Welsh Mountain Zoo - National Zoological Society of Wales

Wales Closing date for applications is: 31st Oct 2025

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 Animal Team Leader.

You’ll work closely with our Head of Animals and Mammals Team Leader; helping to shape, manage and grow our bird and ectotherm departments, while leading and supporting a team of passionate keepers and volunteers.

This is a hands-on leadership position requiring expertise in birds or ectotherms, professionalism, and a genuine passion for animals and people.

What you’ll bring

• Significant experience of working with an EAZA/BIAZA collection in a Zoo/ Wildlife Park
• An expert background and experience of working closely with either:
  • Birds – with experience across a range of species, including breeding, welfare, and
  • Ectotherms – with knowledge of temperature and environmental control, nutrition, and
• A solid knowledge of evidence-based animal care and welfare practices
• Line management experience and a passion for developing your team
• Evidence of ongoing professional development with birds or ectotherms
• A Level 3 Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or equivalent
• A positive solutions-focused mindset
• Strong IT literacy

Key responsibilities

• Leading and inspiring a team of Animal Keepers and volunteers
• Shaping, managing and growing our bird and ectotherm departments
• Promoting and implementing evidence based best practices in animal care, welfare, enrichment, and training
• Supporting and coordinating research, student placements, and collaborative learning opportunities
• Promoting and maintaining high standards of health and safety
• Role modelling and delivering outstanding levels of guest service

If you’re passionate about animal welfare and conservation, thrive in a leadership role, and want to play a central part in shaping the future of a growing zoo – we’d love to hear from you.

Apply for this job

Apply now and help us Bring Conservation to Life:

Your cover letter should outline your motivation for joining our team to help us deliver our mission, and also provide some details about how you meet the requirements for the role in the “what you’ll bring” section above.

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BIAZA, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY

BIAZA's office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Contact outside of those times will get a response when we are next in the office.

If your enquiry is urgent and you need a response before the BIAZA office reopens, please call Jo Judge on 07593 580602. If you wish to reach one of our members, please contact them directly.

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales number 6789783. Registered Office Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY. Registered Charity Number is 1128168 and SC040783 (Scotland)