Zookeeper - Predators

THE ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON; Dunstable; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) invites applications for a dedicated Zookeeper in the Predator section of our Animal Department at Whipsnade Zoo. You will care for diverse mammals, support enrichment and training, and work with a team to maintain welfare and visitor engagement.

Role is full-time (37.5 hours/week) on a 12-month fixed contract, with a rota that includes weekends and bank holidays. Interviews are scheduled for 22nd and 23rd October 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in animal welfare and husbandry.
• Ability to contribute to enrichment and training programmes.
• Willingness to work a rota including weekends and bank holidays.

Responsibilities

• Food Preparation: Preparation of approved diets and carrying out feeding procedures.
• Hygiene and Cleaning: Maintain high hygiene standards for exhibits and equipment.
• Husbandry and Enrichment: Develop high welfare standards and enriching enclosures.
• Animal Observation: Monitor behaviour, health and security; report concerns.

Skills

Animal care

Food preparation

Observation

Teamwork

Job description

ZSL is seeking a dedicated Zookeeper within the Predator section of our Animal Department at Whipsnade Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoo's nestled in the beautiful Chiltern Hills.

This exciting opportunity involves caring for an incredible range of mammals, including African lions, Amur tigers, African wild dogs, brown bears, Northern cheetah, lynx, wolverine and short-clawed otters.

As a vital team member, you will ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry, play an active role in enrichment and training programmes, and help create engaging experiences for visitors. You will work closely with the section manager, team leader, and colleagues, supporting all aspects of daily care and conservation efforts for these amazing species.

This role is offered on a full-time basis, working 37.5 hours per week on a 12 month fixed contact. As our zoos are open seven days a week, your schedule will follow a rota, which includes weekends and bank holidays. We aim to balance business needs with personal flexibility, so you’ll have advance notice of your shifts to help plan your time.

Please note: Interviews will take place on Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd October 2026.

Key responsibilities:

• Food Preparation: Preparation of approved diets and the carrying out of feeding procedures.


• Hygiene and Cleaning: Maintaining the highest standards of hygiene by cleaning and maintaining exhibits, equipment, and other designated areas.


• Husbandry and Enrichment: Contribute to the development of high standards of husbandry and welfare, developing innovative, enriching, and aesthetic enclosures with the team.


• Animal Observation: Observe the behaviour, health, and security of animals and report concerns and problems to Lead Keepers or Section Manager.