Keeper - Elephants

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Noordwes; On-site; ZAR 594 000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned wildlife charity is seeking a Keeper for the Elephant section to provide care for a breeding group of Asian elephants. Ideal candidates will possess a degree in zoological sciences or equivalent experience and have a proven track record in managing large mammals. The position offers a permanent contract with a salary of £26,500, 40 hours a week, and excellent benefits, including a pension scheme and development opportunities. The application deadline is January 8, 2026.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Staff pass for zoo visits

Discounted gym membership

Discounts on cinema tickets

Qualifications

• HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in the care and management of large mammals including elephants.
• Outstanding observational skills with an excellent attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Care for a breeding group of Asian elephants
• Maintain high standards of animal welfare and science.
• Create positive environments for animals.

Skills

Observational skills

Experience with large mammals

Operational conditioning

Computer proficiency including ZIMS

Education

HND or degree in zoological science

Job description

Chester Zoo – Keeper – Elephants

North West Closing date for applications is: 8th Jan 2026

We are Chester Zoo, and for over 90 years we’ve been a leading conservation and education charity, and an amazing, award‑winning visitor attraction. We’re also a team of passionate, talented, enthusiastic and expert people, doing everything we can to prevent extinction, from caring for animals to discovering new conservation ideas, and giving our visitors an inspirational day out. We work hard because we love animals, we care about nature, we love Chester Zoo and despite all the recent challenges thrown at us, we still want to be the best zoo in the world! If you think you can help us to achieve that, then we’d love to hear from you. We currently have an exciting opportunity for a permanent keeper to join us on the Elephant section. For the right candidate, this post offers a fantastic opportunity to work with a breeding group of Asian elephants, leading in the development of science and welfare for the species.

Our Requirements

• A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience
• Proven experience in the care and management of large mammal species that may include Giraffe, Rhinos and Elephants, in a zoo or safari park setting, as well as the highest standards of exhibitory
• Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail
• Experience creating positive environments for animals
• Experience of working within strict Safe Working Practices
• Experience of operant conditioning in a zoo setting
• Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role in order to maintain accurate records

The Package

• Permanent contract
• 40 hours per week, worked 10 days out of 14, including weekends and Bank Holidays as rostered
• Salary of £26,500 per annum
• 33 days annual leave per year
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends
• Employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions of up to 9%
• Excellent training and career progression opportunities

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; the advert will close once the successful candidate is found. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.

Closing date for applications is 8 January 2026

More About Us

We’re not just an amazing, award‑winning visitor attraction that’s home to 30,000 incredible animals. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.

Apply for this job:

Apply via Chester Zoo website.