Senior Keeper - Animal Encounters

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a Senior Keeper to join their dynamic Animal Encounters team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work hands-on with a diverse collection of species, from raptors to primates. As a key leader, you will mentor and inspire a dedicated team, ensuring high standards of animal husbandry and welfare. If you are passionate about animal care and conservation, and eager to take on supervisory responsibilities, this position could be the perfect next step in your career. Join a vibrant environment where your contributions will make a real impact.

Qualifications

• Proven supervisory experience in a zoological setting.
• Extensive practical experience with a range of species.

Responsibilities

• Motivate and manage a diverse animal care team.
• Mentor junior staff and support the Deputy Head of Section.

Skills

Animal Husbandry

Supervisory Skills

Animal Behavior Understanding

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Zoo Animal Management Qualification

Tools

ZIMS

Job description

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Join to apply for the Senior Keeper - Animal Encounters role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)

Woburn Safari Park

Bedfordshire Closing date for applications is: 25th May 2025

Contact: Kara Ward ([e-mail]) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: Competitive

Woburn Safari Park is currently seeking an experienced, dedicated, and confident individual to join the Animal Encounters team as a Senior Keeper.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with a broad and diverse collection of species within our Foot Safari area, including raptors, psittacines, penguins, small mammals, marine mammals, primates, small carnivores, hoofstock, reptiles, and invertebrates.

About The Role

As Senior Keeper, you will play a key leadership role within the section, supporting the Deputy Head of Section and taking on supervisory duties in their absence. You will be responsible for mentoring and overseeing non-permanent team members including seasonal staff, interns, and work experience placements.

This role is both hands-on and people-focused, requiring a strong understanding of animal behaviour and welfare, along with the ability to inspire and lead others.

Key Responsibilities

• Motivate and manage a diverse animal care team to deliver high standards of husbandry and welfare.
• Support and deputise for the Deputy Head of Section when required.
• Mentor junior staff, providing guidance, support, and training.
• Participate in public talks and presentations, promoting education and conservation.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of the section in line with Woburn Safari Park's values.
• Maintain detailed and accurate animal records, including use of ZIMS (or willingness to learn).
• Ensure health and safety standards are upheld across the section.
  
  

What We’re Looking For

• Proven supervisory or staff management experience in a zoological or similar setting.
• Extensive practical experience with a range of species - essential; experience with our species is desirable but not essential.
• A strong understanding of behavioural welfare and animal training techniques.
• A Zoo Animal Management qualification (or equivalent) – essential.
• A full, valid driving licence – essential.
• Exceptional animal husbandry skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Highly organised, proactive, and able to work well under pressure.
  
  

Personal Attributes

• Passionate about animal welfare and conservation.
• Hardworking, flexible, and team-oriented.
• Confident in leading by example and contributing to the park’s success.
  
  

If you’re ready to take the next step in your zoo career and thrive in a leadership role within a dynamic and diverse environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today to join the team at Woburn Safari Park.

Apply For This Job

To apply and view the job description please visit; https://www.woburn.co.uk/careers/vacancy/?Category=Animal%2520Keeping&Advert=EyutQ2shvlo3pux6_j0mJQ%3D%3D

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Contract

Job function

• Job function

  Administrative

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