Experienced keeper special interest reptiles or and birds

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated and experienced keeper with a special interest in reptiles and birds. This full-time position involves caring for a diverse range of animals, including some Category 1 species. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of three years' experience in a zoological setting and be committed to high standards of animal welfare. This physically demanding role requires flexibility in working hours and a willingness to engage in all aspects of animal care. Join a passionate team at a conservation park where your contributions will make a difference!

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years experience in a zoological environment.
• Broad knowledge of husbandry practices and zoo regulations.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for day-to-day animal husbandry and maintenance of exhibits.
• Assist with tours, educational presentations, and training of trainee keepers.

Skills

Animal Husbandry

Communication Skills

Public Speaking

Attention to Detail

Teamwork

Education

DMZAA Course or Equivalent

Tools

Driving License

Job description

• Experienced keeper special interest reptiles or and birds

Experienced keeper special interest reptiles or and birds

Linton Zoo Conservation Park

Linton Zoo Conservation Park

East Anglia Closing date for applications is: 31st May 2025

Linton Zoo Conservation Park currently has a full-time permanent keeper position available for an experienced, highly motivated, reliable and enthusiastic individual. This position is for someone to assist in the care of our fantastic range of animals including some Category 1 species which may include zebra, lions, tiger and snow leopards.

Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years prior experience paid work with similar species within a zoological environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day animal husbandry, including cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas, for a range of other species including mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates.

This is a physically demanding role which requires kneeling, crawling, climbing etc. and the ability to lift heavy food, straw bales etc. in varying weather conditions. The successful candidate will be expected to work to a flexible rota as necessary to include weekends, Public holidays and occasional evenings. Holidays should be taken off season and not during school holidays.

The applicant must be flexible about their duties within the zoo and should be prepared to be involved in all aspects of animal care associated with the daily, safe and smooth running of a family owned and managed conservation and education park with a diverse collection of animals.

This is a full time role working an average of 40 hours a week over 5 days, working days will vary over a 7 day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. The salary for this position is £19,000 - £24,500 per annum for a qualified keeper (experience related scale),

This is a permanent position with a start date as soon as is possible. There will be the opportunity to advance to a senior position for the right candidate.

Applicants should:

• be hard working, conscientious and uphold high standards of animal husbandry and welfare.
• have good attention to detail and a consistent level of work standard is essential
• have patience! animals – like humans – may not do what you want when you want them to
• have the ability to work both individually or as part of a team and have excellent communication skills
• have exceptional attendance and time keeping skills.
• be proficient in public speaking or have the confidence to learn
• be willing to assist with other areas of the park, including tours, educational presentations, general maintenance and upkeep of public areas and the supervision and training of trainee keepers
• have ideally completed the DMZAA course or hold an equivalent qualification,
• have a broad knowledge of husbandry practices, an understanding of Zoo licence regulations and a minimum of 2 years paid work in a similar role
• preferably have a full driving licence and car

Apply for this job if you would like the chance to join our great team, please download an application form from our website. Please send this with a covering letter and CV to Kim Simmons, Linton Zoo, Hadstock Road, Linton, Cambridgeshire CB21 4NT or email to [e-mail] stating any previous experience and availability.

· Please note, we will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews throughout the advertised period for this role which may therefore be filled prior to the closing date. We would encourage you to submit your application form as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Due to the number of applications we receive we are only able to respond to candidates who are successful through to the interview stage.

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)