Animal Support Operative

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Noordwes; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK zoo is seeking a reliable Animal Support Operative to assist in daily operations. Responsibilities include feeding, waste disposal, and maintaining cleanliness within the animal department. Applicants should have experience in a zoo or similar environment, a valid UK driving licence, and a passion for animal care. This is a practical role with opportunities to contribute to ongoing conservation efforts.

Qualifications

• Experience in a zoo, farm, or similar environment.
• Full UK manual driving licence is essential.
• Motivated, organized, and willing to support animal care.

Responsibilities

• Deliver feed and bedding to animal sections.
• Maintain cleanliness and biosecurity standards.
• Assist with basic enclosure maintenance.

Skills

Experience in a zoo or farm environment

Understanding of safe working practices

Organizational skills

Basic maintenance skills

Job description

Blackpool Zoo

North West Closing date for applications is: 15th Aug 2025

Blackpool Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals and is one of the UK’s most respected zoos. We are part of Parques Reunidos, a leading international leisure group with over 30 parks worldwide.

We are committed to conservation, excellent animal care, and inspiring future generations through education. Every member of our team plays a key role in helping us deliver a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for both our animals and our visitors.

Role Overview

We are looking for a hands-on and reliable Animal Support Operative to join our Animal and Veterinary team. This is a practical role supporting the smooth running of the animal department by assisting with essential daily operations.

You will deliver feed and bedding to animal sections, collect and dispose of waste, prepare and distribute diets from our Central Animal Kitchen, and help maintain high standards of cleanliness and biosecurity. You’ll also carry out basic enclosure maintenance and support keepers with general operational tasks.

Experience and Requirements

You’ll have experience in a zoo, farm, or similar environment, with a good understanding of safe working practices and hygiene standards. A full UK manual driving licence is essential, as you’ll be required to operate park vehicles. Experience with farm or ground maintenance machinery is desirable but not essential. Most importantly, you’ll be motivated, organised, and keen to play a key part in supporting animal care.

Apply for this job:

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter outlining your interest in the role to Leah Lancashire, Personnel Manager at [e-mail]

Closing date: Friday 15th August 2025

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you require the application in a different format or need any adjustments during the process, please get in touch.

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BIAZA, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY

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)