Registrar's Assistant and Records Coordinator

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Noordwes; On-site; ZAR 715,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading conservation organization in Noordwes is seeking a highly motivated Registrar's Assistant and Records Coordinator to support species conservation efforts. This role involves managing extensive record-keeping systems and ensuring compliance with animal transfer legislation. Candidates should have a relevant degree and strong organizational skills. The position offers a permanent contract, a salary of £30,000, and excellent benefits including annual leave and a healthcare plan.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Staff pass for zoo visits

Cycle to work scheme

Healthcare plan

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Degree level education or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• Solid understanding of taxonomy, biology, and animal care.
• Strong IT skills and experience with database systems.

Responsibilities

• Support all aspects of animal and plant transfers.
• Daily data entry and maintenance of records.
• Respond to internal and external queries.

Skills

Degree level education or equivalent experience

Understanding of taxonomy and biology

Knowledge of international animal transfer legislation

Strong IT skills with database systems

Excellent communication skills

Attention to detail

Collaborative mindset

Proactive approach

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Tools

ZIMS database

Job description

• Registrar's Assistant and Records Coordinator

Registrar's Assistant and Records Coordinator

Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo

North West / Chester Closing date for applications is: 22nd Aug 2025

We have an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated Registrar’s assistant and records coordinator to join our Animal and Plant Division at Chester Zoo.

Working closely with the Registrar and Records Assistant, this role plays a vital part in supporting our species conservation efforts by ensuring our animal and plant records are maintained with exceptional accuracy and care. You’ll be a key figure in helping to manage the zoo’s extensive record-keeping systems, facilitate the movement of animals and plants between institutions, and uphold our commitment to legal compliance and data integrity. Whether it’s entering critical data into ZIMS, liaising with Government agencies on CITES and APHA/DEFRA requirements, or training colleagues in record-keeping protocols, this role will place you at the heart of our conservation mission.

What the role involves:

• Supporting all aspects of animal and plant transfers, including liaising with external organisations and obtaining relevant documentation for legal compliance (APHA/DEFRA, CITES, etc.)
• Daily data entry and interrogation of ZIMS and other databases, ensuring records are up to date, accurate, and in line with zoo licensing legislation
• Responding to internal and external queries, including historical records and reporting requests
• Setting up ZIMS access for users, supporting training and providing guidance on data entry
• Collaborating with animal and plant teams, vets, and Animal Heads of Department to support the logistical and veterinary requirements of transfers
• Assisting in identifying operational needs such as equipment, software, and resources
• Contributing to the planning of transfers and projects and identifying any issues that could impact success
• Supporting the preparation of departmental input into the zoo’s annual budget, particularly in areas relating to records and transfers

What we’relooking for:

• Degree level education or equivalent experience in a relevant field
• A solid understanding of taxonomy, biology, and animal care across a broad range of species
• Knowledge of international animal transfer legislation and processes
• Strong IT skills with proven experience using database systems; experience with ZIMS is highly desirable
• Excellent communication skills – written, verbal, and in-person
• Attention to detail, with excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively with multiple departments and external stakeholders
• A proactive approach, with the ability to respond flexibly to changing priorities and timelines
• Previous experience in a zoo or conservation environment is desirable but not essential

The Package

• Permanent contract
• Full time - 40 hours per week
• £30,000 per annum
• 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Cycle to work scheme
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%

Closing date for applications is 22 August 2025.

Apply for this job:

Please apply through our website using the following link:

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)