Keeper - Giraffes

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Noordwes; On-site; ZAR 13 000 - 300 000; Part time

Job summary

A leading zoo is seeking a dedicated Keeper for the Giraffe Team. This part-time role involves caring for various hoof stock species, ensuring their health and welfare, and delivering memorable guest experiences. The successful candidate will work every weekend and two Wednesdays a month, with opportunities for training and career progression. A degree in zoological science or equivalent experience is required, along with proven experience in animal care.

Benefits

33 days annual leave (pro rata)

Staff pass for zoo visits

Healthcare plan access

Discounted gym membership

Discounts on cinema tickets and restaurants

Pension scheme with employer contributions

Training and career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in care and management of hoof stock species.
• Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain husbandry, health, and welfare of hoof stock species.
• Ensure habitats and facilities are maintained to high standards.
• Assist with training and handling of animals.

Skills

Observational Skills

Attention to Detail

Flexibility

Education

HND or degree in zoological related science

Tools

ZIMS software

Job description

Chester Zoo

North West Closing date for applications is: 23rd May 2025

This is a key role working as part of our professional team based on the Giraffe Section. For the right candidate, this post offers a fantastic opportunity to work with a variety of hoof stock species including, but not limited to; Nubian giraffe, Warthog, Zebra and Roan.

With Heart of Africa recently opening, the successful applicant will support the team and play an integral part of the new mixed species exhibit.

As a Keeper on the Giraffe Team, you will:

• Be responsible for maintaining excellent husbandry, health and welfare of a wide variety of hoof stock species.
• Be responsible for ensuring habitats and facilities are maintained to the highest possible standard.
• Have self-motivation to work independently, but also embrace working as part of a large, diverse, highly motivated team.
• Assist with the training and handling of animals, assisting veterinary staff with procedures and administering medication with relevant after care.
• Have the ability to deliver memorable and informative guest experiences.

The Package

• Permanent part-time position. Working every weekend and two Wednesdays a month.
• Average of 20 hours per week, working every weekend and two Wednesdays a month. May include bank holidays and split shifts.
• 33 days annual leave per year (pro rata)
• Salary £13,653.48 per annum.
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends.
• Access to healthcare plan.
• 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.
  

Our Requirements

• A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in the care and management of a variety of hoof stock species in a zoo or safari park setting, as well as the highest standards of enclosure management.
• Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Flexibility to accommodate different shift patterns for 6 months of the year.
• Experience of working within strict Safe Working Practices.
• Driving licence.

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Experience working with mixed species exhibits.
• Aptitude to deliver comprehensive and informative Giraffe Experiences.
• Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role to maintain accurate records.

Closing date for applications is Friday 23rd May 2025

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 and it is possible this will be prior to the advertised end date. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.

More About Us

We are not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to over 37,000 incredible animals. We are not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We are a major wildlife charity that is 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.

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)