Zoo Animal Keeper - Entry Level, Conservation Focus

National Zoological Society of Wales - Welsh Mountain Zoo; Colwyn Bay; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

National Zoological Society of Wales - Welsh Mountain Zoo is seeking an entry level Cover Keeper to join our dedicated team. The role is full-time with a salary of £26,171 per annum and involves daily husbandry, enrichment, and support across zoo operations in North Wales.

You will work with the Head of Animals and Animal Team Leaders, maintaining high welfare standards, contributing to conservation efforts, and engaging with visitors through educational demonstrations.

Qualifications

• Significant practical experience with a wide range of species in a zoo/wildlife park.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry, behaviour, enrichment and welfare principles.
• Experience with positive reinforcement training techniques.
• Ability to monitor and report animal health and behaviour observations.
• Working towards or holding a relevant qualification in animal care.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in a team setting.
• Ability to work as part of a team or independently.
• Willingness to deploy firearms in emergencies.
• Capable of delivering high standards of customer service.
• Strong verbal and written reporting skills.
• Physically able to perform demanding tasks including lifting.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily husbandry including feeding & enrichment for a variety of exotic species
• Safely move, catch and restrain animals using correct techniques
• Assist in treatment and medication of animals
• Clean and maintain habitats to encourage natural behaviours
• Monitor animal health and behaviour - recording & reporting observations
• Deliver educational talks and demonstrations on species
• Work collaboratively as part of a team and support wider zoo operations
• Work on a rota over 7 days including weekends and bank holidays
• Complete mandatory training and professional development
• Ensure compliance with policies including Welfare, GDPR, Health and Safety

Skills

Practical animal care

Animal husbandry

Enrichment principles

Positive reinforcement

Health & behaviour monitoring

Communication skills

Teamwork & independence

Firearms training

Customer service

Verbal & written reporting

Physical fitness

Education

Diploma or higher in Animal Management

Job description

National Zoological Society of Wales - Welsh Mountain Zoo is seeking an entry level Cover Keeper to join our dedicated team. The role is full-time with a salary of £26,171 per annum and involves daily husbandry, enrichment, and support across zoo operations in North Wales.

You will work with the Head of Animals and Animal Team Leaders, maintaining high welfare standards, contributing to conservation efforts, and engaging with visitors through educational demonstrations.