Qualified Animal Ranger

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading wildlife conservation park in the UK is seeking a Qualified Animal Ranger for its expanding Hoofstock Section. Responsibilities include ensuring high animal welfare standards, cleaning enclosures, and engaging with guests. The ideal candidate has at least 3 years of experience in a zoological collection and a relevant diploma. This position requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work under pressure, contributing to a memorable experience for visitors.

Qualifications

• 3 years minimum working in a zoological collection.
• Proven experience working with a range of hoofstock species.
• Must be a team player with the ability to multi-task.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high standards of animal welfare and husbandry.
• Cleaning and maintaining enclosures.
• Supervise the completion of designated tasks.

Skills

Good observation skills

Excellent interpersonal skills

Ability to work well under pressure

Education

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

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 over 400 animals across more than 70 different species.

An exceptional opportunity has become available for a Qualified Animal Ranger to join the innovative and expanding Hoofstock Section of Yorkshire Wildlife Park’s Animal Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for day-to -day husbandry of a diverse collection of hoofstock species, including Black Rhino, Okapi, Giraffe, Bactrian Camel, Grevy’s Zebra, Common Eland, Kafue Flats Lechwe, and Kirk’s Dik-Dik. Applicants should possess either a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or a degree level qualification in an animal/ conservation subject area.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Deliver high standards of animal welfare and husbandry.
• Cleaning and maintaining enclosures.
• Ensure that all nutritional requirements are met and adhere to defined dietary instructions.
• Daily browse collection.
• Animal training and enrichment.
• Ensure that safety and emergency procedures are always followed.
• Maintain accurate animal records.
• Deliver talks and presentations throughout the day, engaging with guests wherever possible.
• Facilitate an exciting and memorable experience for our guests.
• Provide support and expert advice to colleagues.
• Supervise the completion of designated tasks.

Candidate:

• 3 years minimum working in a zoological collection.
• Proven experience working with a range of hoofstock species.
• Good observation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Must be a team player with the ability to multi-task.
• Ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
• Enthusiastic and self-motivated with the ability to work well under pressure.

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)