Zoo Keeper

British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA); London; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading zoo in the UK is seeking a dedicated Zoo Keeper to join their team. The role involves caring for a diverse range of animals, ensuring their wellbeing, and providing educational experiences to the public. Applicants should have previous zoo keeping experience or equivalent qualification, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to animal welfare. Opportunities include working outdoors and engaging with wildlife enthusiasts in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Previous zoo keeping experience or relevant qualification needed.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills essential.
• Flexibility to work weekends and outdoors in all weather.

Responsibilities

• Daily husbandry tasks including feeding and health checks of animals.
• Providing educational talks and engaging with visitors.
• Assisting with veterinary procedures and record keeping.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Animal Welfare

Education

Diploma in Animal Management or equivalent

Job description

Zoo

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

Contact: Andy Johnson ([e-mail]) Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £28,000+

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.
  
  

Desirable

• Significant experience working with Category 1 species and reptiles
• First aid training and a full UK driving licence
• Firearms license
• Filtration maintenance experience
  
  

Apply For This Job

If you are interested in becoming a member of our zoo team, please send a CV and cover letter to [e-mail]