Job opportunities

Senior Keeper - Animal Encounters

Woburn Safari Park is currently seeking an experienced, dedicated, and confident individual to join the Animal Encounters team as a Senior Keeper.

This is an exciting opportunity to work with a broad and diverse collection of species within our Foot Safari area, including raptors, psittacines, penguins, small mammals, marine mammals, primates, small carnivores, hoofstock, reptiles, and invertebrates.

About the Role

As Senior Keeper, you will play a key leadership role within the section, supporting the Deputy Head of Section and taking on supervisory duties in their absence. You will be responsible for mentoring and overseeing non-permanent team members including seasonal staff, interns, and work experience placements.
This role is both hands-on and people-focused, requiring a strong understanding of animal behaviour and welfare, along with the ability to inspire and lead others.

Key Responsibilities

•    Motivate and manage a diverse animal care team to deliver high standards of husbandry and welfare.
•    Support and deputise for the Deputy Head of Section when required.
•    Mentor junior staff, providing guidance, support, and training.
•    Participate in public talks and presentations, promoting education and conservation.
•    Contribute to the development and improvement of the section in line with Woburn Safari Park's values.
•    Maintain detailed and accurate animal records, including use of ZIMS (or willingness to learn).
•    Ensure health and safety standards are upheld across the section.

What We’re Looking For

•    Proven supervisory or staff management experience in a zoological or similar setting.
•    Extensive practical experience with a range of species - essential; experience with our species is desirable but not essential.
•    A strong understanding of behavioural welfare and animal training techniques.
•    A Zoo Animal Management qualification (or equivalent) – essential.
•    A full, valid driving licence – essential.
•    Exceptional animal husbandry skills and attention to detail.
•    Excellent communication and customer service skills.
•    Highly organised, proactive, and able to work well under pressure.

Personal Attributes

•    Passionate about animal welfare and conservation.
•    Hardworking, flexible, and team-oriented.
•    Confident in leading by example and contributing to the park’s success.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your zoo career and thrive in a leadership role within a dynamic and diverse environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today to join the team at Woburn Safari Park.