Keeper - Reptiles

Chester-Zoo; Chester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff pass

Healthcare plan

Discounted gym membership

Cinema and restaurant discounts

Pension scheme 9%

Job summary

Chester Zoo is seeking a Keeper for the Ectotherm Team to care for amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates, support welfare, hygiene and exhibit life support, and assist with engaging visitor experiences.

The role is a fixed-term 6-month contract, 40 hours per week on a 10 days out of 14 roster including weekends and Bank Holidays, with 33 days annual leave pro rata and a salary of £27,500 per year plus staff benefits.

Qualifications

• HND or degree level qualification in zoological science or equivalent experience.
• Experience in Zoo/Aquarium settings with ectotherms (reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates).
• Strong observation skills and commitment to animal welfare standards.
• Understanding of ex situ populations for education, science and conservation.
• Exhibit theming and good communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in animal welfare, hygiene and life support.
• Support public engagement and animal experiences for visitors.
• Maintain high exhibit standards for animals and guests.
• Provide outstanding customer care and teamwork in a busy setting.

Skills

Observational skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Public engagement

Education

HND or degree in zoological science

Tools

ZIMS software

Microsoft Teams

Job description

Keeper – Ectotherm Team

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Keeper in our Ectotherm team, working in a setting like no other! For the right candidate, this post offers a fantastic opportunity to work with an incredible & diverse collection species of amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. The successful candidate will assist in all aspects of animal welfare, hygiene, life support, and public engagement, including our animal experiences. They will ensure that all exhibits are of an excellent standard for both animals and visitors alike and provide outstanding customer care.

The Package

• Fixed term 6 month contract
• Hours of work are 40 hours per week, worked 10 days out of 14, including weekends and Bank Holidays as rostered.
• 33 days annual leave (pro rata)
• Salary of £27,500 per annum
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends
• Access to healthcare plan
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions of up to 9%

Our Requirements

• A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience
• Proven experience of working in a Zoo or Aquarium setting with relevant Ectotherms in particular Reptiles, Amphibians and Invertebrates
• Outstanding observational skills, attention to detail and be committed to ensuring the highest possible standards of animal health and welfare are met
• A thorough understanding of the contribution that ex situ populations can make to education, science and conservation
• Excellent exhibit theming skills
• Strong teamwork skills, adaptable to work in a group and independently
• Good competence in internal and external communications
• Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including Microsoft Teams, ZIMS software, in order to maintain accurate records

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Experience of working in field conservation and conducting research projects
• Experience in conducting and publishing scientific research

More About Us

We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to 37,000 incredible animals. 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 closing date for applications is 29 September 2026

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.