Job opportunities

12-Month Work Placement

Colchester Zoological Society is home to over 150 species and works to provide a first-class experience for all its visitors, to furthering understanding and respect for animals and wild places through education and research. Through visitors’ funds Colchester Zoological Society undertakes breeding programmes for endangered species and supports numerous in-situ conservation projects in the UK and around the world.

At Colchester Zoological Society we understand the importance of having the opportunity to gain real world work experience and aid career building. Our 12-month work experience placements are open to people who want to build on pervious animal experience and theory, or you want to complete a placement year as part of your degree.

About the Placements

Placements are based on one animal section and due to the nature of the Zoo’s layout, animal sections cover multiple taxa. Some sections have a focus on one particular group of animals such as primates or reptiles, with the addition of other species under their care.

Expected duties include, but are not limited to:

• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures
• Providing enrichment
• Preparing animal diets
• Participation in animal training
• Delivering public talks

The 12-month placement also has a formal learning programme to allow you to expand your knowledge and gain an insight into the theory behind the real-world application of caring for animals in a zoological setting. As well as aiding in building practical wisdom and developing professional skills.

Topics introduced include Nutrition, Welfare, Ethics, Enclosure Design, Visitor Psychology and many more.

Requirements

• 18 years old and above
• Enrolled on, or have completed an accredited animal/conservation-based course
• Minimum QCA recognised level 2 diploma
• Some limited animal experience (farm, stable, rescue centre etc)
• Able to attend full-time, 5 days, on placement per week which may include weekends