Aquatics Section Head

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent wildlife conservation park in the UK is seeking an experienced Section Head for their Aquatics team. Responsibilities include managing operations and ensuring high standards of animal welfare. Ideal candidates should hold a Diploma in Zoo or Aquarium Management or a related degree, with prior experience in the zoological industry. This is a vital role in supporting conservation efforts and enhancing guest experience.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading/supervising a team of staff.
• Comprehensive experience in the zoological industry.
• Experience managing a range of mammal species preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Aquatics team.
• Maintain exemplary husbandry and welfare standards.
• Oversee day-to-day operational management of the section.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Animal husbandry

Operational management

Education

Diploma in the Management of Zoo or Aquarium Animals (DMZAA)

Degree in an animal/conservation subject

Job description

Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Yorkshire Closing date for applications is: 11th Aug 2025

Since its opening in 2009, Yorkshire Wildlife Park has evolved to become the UK’s number 1 on-foot safari. We feature walkthrough exhibits that take the guest directly into the world of the animals. A dynamic centre for conservation and welfare, the park currently has around 475 animals across more than 60 different species. We aim to provide a quality, value for money experience that excites and inspires our guests.

We are currently looking for an experienced Section Head to lead and manage our Aquatics team. The Section Head is responsible for all aspects of the day to day operational management of the section, including maintaining exemplary husbandry and welfare standards for a range of terrestrial and aquatic mammals. Previous experience leading/ supervising a team of staff is essential.

To be considered, candidates must possess a Diploma in the Management of Zoo or Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or degree level qualification in an animal/ conservation subject area (please refer to person specification in the vacancy pack for details), and must demonstrate comprehensive experience of working within the zoological inductry including experience managing a range of mammal species with aquatic mammal experience being advantageous.

Apply for this job:

To download the vacancy information pack and the required application form, please visit the vacancies section of our website www.yorkshirewildlifepark.com

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)