Aquarist

Chester Zoo; Chester; On-site; GBP 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a renowned wildlife charity that is pivotal in conservation efforts. As a Keeper/Aquarist, you will work in a vibrant environment surrounded by diverse wildlife, contributing to the care of ectothermic species. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage in animal husbandry, maintain aquarium systems, and collaborate with a passionate team dedicated to making a difference. With a focus on career development and a supportive workplace culture, this position is ideal for those looking to grow in the field of zoology while making a significant impact on global conservation efforts.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Staff pass for zoo visits

Cycle to work scheme

Healthcare plan

Discounted gym membership

Discounts on cinema tickets and restaurants

Pension scheme with employer contributions

Qualifications

• Knowledge in animal husbandry for freshwater and marine organisms.
• Ability to adapt to different team dynamics and environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain aquarium displays and systems.
• Keep accurate records of fish husbandry and health.

Skills

Animal Husbandry

Communication Skills

Problem Solving

Risk Assessments

Teamwork

Education

HND or degree in zoological science

Tools

ZIMS

Basic Software Packages

Job description

Keeper/Aquarist - Aquarium Team

Full time, permanent contract working on-site at Chester Zoo.

We are Chester Zoo

We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to over 37,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.

The Role

We now have an exciting new role for an outstanding Keeper/Aquarist Ectotherms. Reporting to the Assistant Team Manager, you’ll be part of a small team of dedicated aquarists. You’ll be part of the Ectotherms department and will assist other teams across site when needed.

We’re looking for someone who can:

• Manage and maintain exciting aquarium displays and systems
• Uphold the highest possible standards of animal health and welfare
• Keep accurate records of fish husbandry, breeding, health and welfare
• Find solutions to novel problems and develop new ways of working
• Assist the Ectotherm teams as required to support and develop projects
  
  

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…

We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of over 600 permanent and 500 temporary team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

Our working environment could not be more different from a typical office – where else can you see critically endangered orangutans from your office window, or stroll among rare giraffes and tigers on your lunch break?

The Package

• Permanent
• 40 hour week on a rota basis including every other weekend and some bank holidays
• £27,306.96 per annum
• 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Cycle to work scheme
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%
  
  

Our Requirements:

• An HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent practical experience
• Knowledge and expertise in animal husbandry with freshwater and marine organisms in a public aquarium setting
• Ability to prioritise tasks in a dynamic environment
• Adaptability to different team dynamics, working across the Ectotherm Department
• A good understanding of risk assessments and safe working practices
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and confident in delivering presentations and participating in disseminating information
• Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages
  
  

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Understanding of ZIMS
• Full and clean driving licence
• Field experience in conservation (national and/or international)
• A sound understanding of managing populations for in-situ and ex-situ conservation and an understanding of the contribution that ex situ populations can make to education and applied research
  
  

Interviews will take place on 23 May 2025

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; the advert will close once the successful candidate is found. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.