Seasonal Conservation Breeding Officer - Birds

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); North Norfolk; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A wildlife conservation organization in North Norfolk seeks a Seasonal Conservation Breeding Officer to assist in crucial bird conservation projects. Candidates should have experience in animal husbandry and a passion for wildlife. This full-time role involves daily care, health checks, and maintenance of facilities, with a focus on curlew and corncrake species. On-site accommodation is provided, making it ideal for individuals able to respond to animal welfare needs flexibly, including weekends and holidays.

Benefits

On-site accommodation provided

Hands-on experience with conservation projects

Qualifications

• Experience in animal husbandry, aviculture, conservation or wildlife work.
• Calm, reliable, and attentive to animal welfare.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to seasonal demands and flexibility in work hours.
• Possession of a driving license and personal vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Daily care and husbandry of curlew, corncrake, and other project species.
• Assisting with incubation, hatching and chick rearing.
• Supporting health checks, vet liaison, and data recording.
• Maintenance of indoor and outdoor facilities, aviaries, and pens.
• Assisting with bird transfers and release programmes.

Skills

Animal husbandry experience

Aviculture

Attention to animal welfare

Reliable working independently

Team collaboration

Job description

Seasonal Conservation Breeding Officer - Birds

Deepdale Conservation Trust

North Norfolk Closing date for applications is: 28th Feb 2026

Deepdale Conservation Trust is seeking a Seasonal Conservation Breeding Officer to support the delivery of two nationally important conservation programmes of bird species.

These programmes are:

• Curlew Headstarting Project
• Corncrake Captive Breeding and Reintroduction Project

This is a rare opportunity to work hands‑on with priority species, contributing directly to their recovery in the wild. You’ll be part of a small, dedicated team delivering high‑quality conservation breeding, from incubation and chick rearing through to release.

This is a practical, hands‑on role supporting daily husbandry, health checks, record keeping and preparation of birds for release, working to high standards of welfare, biosecurity and professionalism.

The role includes:

• Daily care and husbandry of curlew, corncrake and any other project species
• Assisting with incubation, hatching and chick rearing
• Supporting health checks, vet liaison, ringing and data recording
• Maintenance of indoor and outdoor facilities, aviaries and pens
• Assisting with bird transfers and release programmes
• Adherence to biosecurity, health & safety and DCT policies

Working pattern:

• Full‑time seasonal role (approx. 42.5 hours per week)
• Flexible working essential, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and public holidays during busy periods of the season
• The nature of conservation breeding work requires responsiveness to animal welfare needs outside standard hours

Accommodation:

• On‑site accommodation (static caravan) provided, making this role well suited to applicants able to live at Marsh Farm for the duration of the contract

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience in animal husbandry, aviculture, conservation or wildlife work
• Is calm, reliable and highly attentive to animal welfare
• Is comfortable working independently and as part of a small team
• Can commit fully to the seasonal nature and flexible demands of the role
• Has a driving licence and personal use of a car

Experience with birds or conservation breeding projects is desirable but not essential.

Apply for this job:

To apply, please send your CV and a short covering letter outlining your interest in the role to:

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.