Deputy Primates Section Head

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier wildlife park in the UK is seeking a passionate Deputy Section Head to lead their Primates team. The role requires management of animal care standards, team supervision, and delivery of an exceptional guest experience. Ideal candidates should possess relevant qualifications and strong leadership skills, with the ability to perform well under pressure. Flexibility to work during peak times is a must.

Qualifications

• Candidates must possess relevant qualifications in animal care.
• Previous experience in a supervisory role is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Ensure exemplary husbandry and welfare standards.
• Manage team members effectively.
• Monitor health and safety protocol.
• Enhance guest experience.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Leadership skills

Ability to work under pressure

Public speaking

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: 19th 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’re on the lookout for a passionate and driven Deputy Section Head to join our dynamic Primates team.In this pivotal role, you’ll work closely with the Section Head, stepping up on their absence to lead, inspire, and supervise a dedicated team of animal care professionals. Together, you’ll deliver exemplary standards for animal health, husbandry and welfare for an incredible variety of primate species.

In this role, you can make a real impact on animal care and grow as a leader in a truly unique environment.

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).Previous experience supervising/ leading a team of staff would be advantageous.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Ensure consistent exemplary husbandry and welfare standards on the section.
• Management of the team members.
• Implement and consistently monitor health and safety protocol.
• Provision of an exemplary guest experience.

Candidate:

• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership skills and experience.
• Enthusiastic and self-motivated with the ability to work well under pressure.
• To be considered, applicants must be confident in delivering talks and presentations to large audiences on a daily basis.
• Must be flexible and able to work during our peak times which include weekends, bank holidays and school holidays.
• Experience in Animal training, but not essential

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

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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)