Experienced Animal Keeper

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

Job summary

A leading conservation organization in Scotland is seeking a skilled and passionate Animal Keeper to support animal care and public engagement. The role involves maintaining animal health, delivering talks, and assisting in conservation initiatives. Ideal candidates will have 2-3 years of keeper experience and skills in animal husbandry. Join a collaborative workplace committed to conservation and welfare.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Discounts up to 50% off for the in-house gift shop

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years of professional keeper experience in zoo/aquarium.
• Experience with enrichment, conditioning, and behavioral observation.
• Comfortable working in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver species-appropriate diets.
• Maintain exhibit cleanliness and presentation.
• Monitor animal health and report to veterinary teams.

Skills

Animal husbandry

Teamwork

Communication

Behavioural observation

Education

Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme

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

Job description

St Andrews Aquarium

Scotland Closing date for applications is: 5th Dec 2025

St Andrews Aquarium is seeking a skilled and passionate Animal Keeper with experience across terrestrial and aquatic species to join our dedicated Animal Care Team.

You’ll be working closely with the team to help maintain over 50 displays, including a wide variety of fish, invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, new world monkeys, penguins, and meerkats. Key responsibilities will include daily talks, ensuring high standards of husbandry and animal care, consistently accurate record keeping, engagement with the public and input into the development of new exhibits.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and deliver species-appropriate diets and enrichment.
• Maintain excellent exhibit and behind-the-scenes cleanliness and presentation.
• Provide high-quality daily husbandry for assigned species.
• Monitor animal health and behaviour, reporting promptly to veterinary and management teams.
• Participate in training programs.
• Assist in breeding, conservation, and research initiatives.
• Deliver talks, demonstrations, and visitor engagement sessions.
• Maintain accurate records in accordance with institutional, national, and international welfare standards.

About You

• Minimum 2-3 years of professional keeper experience in a zoo, aquarium, or similar accredited facility.
• Strong working knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare, and safety protocols.
• Experience with enrichment, conditioning, and behavioural observation.
• Comfortable working with both terrestrial and aquatic environments.
• Good physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Desirable Qualifications

• Aquatic experience, including life support systems (LSS), although candidates with a clear commitment to work towards expanding their proficiency in this field are encouraged to apply.
• Successfully completed the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA), or an equivalent qualification.
• Experience with public presentations or educational outreach.

What We Offer

• Workplace: A supportive and collaborative workplace culture.
• Training: Opportunities for professional development. The chance to contribute to impactful conservation and welfare initiatives.
• Holidays: 30 days annual leave allowance.
• Discounts: Up to 50% off for the in-house gift shop.

Use the subject line “Experienced Keeper Application – [Your Name]”.

Follow Us

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)