Zoo Keeper

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); England; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A family-run zoo in the East of England is seeking an experienced zookeeper to join their growing team. The successful candidate will undertake daily husbandry tasks, maintain animal enclosures, and engage with visitors through educational talks. A commitment to animal welfare and the ability to work with Category 1 animals is essential.

Qualifications

• Previous zoo keeping experience or relevant qualification required.
• Significant experience handling Category 1 species and reptiles.
• Full UK driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Daily husbandry tasks including feeding and health checks.
• Maintenance and cleanliness of animal enclosures.
• Providing educational talks to visitors.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to detail

Physical fitness

Education

Diploma in Animal Management or equivalent

First aid training

Job description

Zoo

East of England Closing date for applications is: 28th Jun 2025

Johnsons of Old Hurst is a family run zoo near Huntingdon, Cambridge. We are a fast growing zoological collection that is currently looking for someone to join our zoo team due to our continued growth.

Key Responsibilities:

· Daily husbandry tasks including feeding, cleaning, enrichment, and health checks across a diverse range of species (including Category 1 animals).

· Preparation and delivery of species-specific diets.

· Maintenance and cleanliness of enclosures and animal areas.

· Monitoring animal behaviour and welfare, reporting any concerns to senior staff or veterinary team.

· Providing educational talks to school children and engaging with visitors to promote awareness and conservation during animal experiences.

· Assisting with veterinary procedures and record keeping.

· Upholding the highest standards of safety, especially when working with Category 1 animals.

Requirements:

· Previous zoo keeping experience or a relevant qualification (e.g. Diploma in Animal Management or equivalent).

· Confident and competent working with a wide variety of animals, including potentially dangerous species (Category 1) and specifically reptiles.

· Strong teamwork and communication skills.

· Excellent attention to detail and commitment to animal welfare.

· Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

· Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays, and across a rota.

· Significant experience working with Category 1 species and reptiles

· First aid training and a full UK driving licence

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)