Seasonal Hoofstock Keepers

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading amusement park in England is seeking Seasonal Hoofstock Keepers to provide top-notch animal care and engage guests at the Hoofstock Section. Responsibilities include maintaining detailed animal records, delivering memorable experiences through talks, and ensuring high standards of health and safety. Candidates should have relevant animal care qualifications and a passion for working with animals. Benefits include a competitive hourly rate and numerous discounts. Join the adventure and make every day exciting!

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate

Access to Merlin benefits page

25% discount in on-site retail shops

40% discount on Lego

Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets

Ongoing training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience working in animal care is preferred.
• Ability to deliver talks and presentations confidently.
• Hard-working and adaptable to a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for animal care and desire for career development.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high standards of animal husbandry for Hoofstock species.
• Maintain animal records in cooperation with the Zoo Supervisor.
• Engage with guests for a memorable experience.
• Plan and execute animal enrichment activities.
• Comply with health and safety protocols.
• Support conservation goals and fundraising events.

Skills

Animal care experience

Public speaking

Teamwork

Positive attitude

Education

Animal-based qualification

Tools

UK driving license

Job description

Chessington World of Adventures

Location: Chessington World of Adventures Resort Leatherhead Road Chessington Surrey KT9 2NE

Hours: Fixed term contract to 15th November 2026

Advert closing date: 31st January 2026. Please note we reserve the right to close applications early if we receive a high volume of quality applications. We would therefore recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible.

Are you passionate about creating memorable experiences? Do you thrive in a fast‑paced, fun environment? Then we want YOU to be part of our team. Leave the everyday behind and unleash your imagination as you explore a career at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Britain’s biggest wildlife theme park.

Here at Chessington World of Adventures we are gearing up for our 2026 Season and we are looking for Seasonal Hoofstock Keepers to join the team!

To support our experienced keepers, you will be delivering the highest standards of animal husbandry for a wide range of species in the Hoofstock Section which include Giraffes, Rhinos, zebras and many more.

Day to day this role will include:

• Becoming proficient in the care and husbandry of species assigned to the Hoofstock Section.
• Maintain records and documentation pertaining to the animals in your care; liaising with the Zoo Supervisor to keep animal records up‑to‑date.
• Deliver amazing guest experiences as required including VIP experiences and keeper talks.
• Support the wider Resort operation in the delivery of Merlin and Chessington’s business objectives.
• Comply with and adhere to all relevant health and safety procedures and protocols in line with legal and company requirements.
• Planning, evaluating and executing environmental enrichment for the animals under your care.
• Using positive reinforcement; training a wide variety of species for husbandry behaviours.
• Support the goals of the Chessington Conservation Fund (CCF), Merlin’s Magic Wand (MMW) and the Sea Life Trust; assisting and supporting with fundraising events.
• Participate in education, research and conservation projects where applicable.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of one of the UK’s most exciting attractions. Apply now to join our team and make every day an adventure!

Qualifications & Experience

We need you to come with the right positive attitude, enjoy working as part of a team, in a fast‑paced environment, and be able to deliver jaw‑dropping fun to our guests!

• Our ideal candidate will have completed or be working towards an animal‑based qualification and have previous experience working in animal care.
• You will be a clear, confident public speaker with the ability to deliver keeper talks and presentations confidently and professionally.
• You will be hard‑working, adaptable and reliable.
• You will have passion and excitement for your chosen field, with a keen drive to develop your career as an animal keeper.
• Full clean UK driving license required.
• A competitive hourly rate.
• Access to Merlin benefits page with discounts on over 1000 fashion and electronic retailers, restaurants and travel.
• 25% discount in our on‑site retail shops and restaurants.
• 40% discount on Lego.
• Merlin Magic Pass – 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all our Merlin Attractions across the world.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.