Zoo Keeper (Cover Keeper)

Merlin Entertainments Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic team at a leading attraction as a Zoo Keeper, where you will be responsible for animal husbandry and creating unforgettable experiences for visitors. This role offers the chance to work with a diverse range of species while contributing to conservation and education efforts. With a focus on personal development and teamwork, you will thrive in a stimulating environment that values initiative and adaptability. Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of animals and guests alike.

Benefits

28 days holiday

Merlin Magic Pass

Company bonus

Private pension scheme

40% discount off LEGO

25% discount in retail shops

Ongoing training and development

Qualifications

• Degree in Animal Science, Zoology, Biology, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a zoo environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute environmental enrichment for animals.
• Deliver first-class meet and greets and memorable experiences.

Skills

Animal Husbandry

Communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

Degree in Animal Science

Degree in Zoology

Degree in Biology

Job description

What you'll bring to the team

Location: Leatherhead Road, Chessington, KT9 2NE

Here at Chessington World of Adventures we are recruiting for an Zoo Keeper to join our team!

The successful candidate will work alongside the Zoo Team and take an active role in the day-to-day running of the collection, including delivery of the highest standards of animal husbandry required by species such as Capybara, Asian small-clawed otters, Binturong and a range of primates.

Duties will include planning, evaluating and executing environmental enrichment for the animals under your care, alongside delivering first-class meet and greets and memorable experiences to our Adventurers. You will also be required to use positive reinforcement to train a wide variety of species for husbandry and presentations.

You will be part of a team that creates the most stimulating environment possible – for both animals and guests. Since we’re big on conservation, education and research, you’ll have a big part to play in that too. You will also be keen to support all areas within our zoo, which will in turn benefit your own personal development. You will ensure the health and safety of yourself, colleagues and our guests at all times as well as develop a personal training programme in conjunction with your Head of Section.

Qualifications & Experience

• A degree in Animal Science, Zoology, Biology, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience of working in a zoo environment or equivalent
• Confident communicator and show good initiative
• Passion and excitement for your chosen field, with a keen drive to develop your career as an animal keeper.
• Team player, with a positive, can – do attitude
• Able to stay focused and in control under pressure.
• Adaptability, flexibility and willingness to swap routines at short notice to meet the needs of changing circumstances.
• Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks
• Flexible availability around park hours, including weekends and holidays.

Benefits

• An annual salary of £26,000
• 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all of our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
• Company bonus
• Private pension scheme
• 40% discount online off LEGO
• 25% discount in our on-site retail shops and restaurants
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Plus, many more…

Pay Range

GBP £26,000.00/Yr.