Job opportunities

Zoo Maintenance Assistant

Do you love working outside, want to make a real difference to a wildlife conservation charity, and have the experience and skills to put your hand to anything?

In this role you would be a big part of the team that looks after and improves all aspects of Dartmoor Zoo’s infrastructure and environment.

Hours:         Full time (37.5 hours per week).
Contract:     Permanent
Salary:         £24,200 per annum

Leave:         30 days per year (inclduing bank holidays)

Key tasks:

• Maintain and repair all areas of the Zoo.
• Perform grounds-keeping to maintain a positive appearance, especially in guest areas.
• Maintain and repair all Zoo buildings and structures, including animal houses and enclosures.
• Help to create, develop or rebuild new animal houses and enclosures in line with the animal collection plan, and create appropriate access paths for the public and staff.
• Be proactive and identify and assist in scheduling works to prevent longer-term issues.
• Supervise, coach and work with volunteering groups and individuals assigned to the maintenance department.
• Help manage contractors as required around site. 
• Answer questions from the visiting public in a courteous and informative manner, or seek appropriate assistance from another team member.
• Support the Maintenance Manager and Health and Safety compliance, by performing park safety checks, assist on creating risk assessments, scheduling work and researching materials.
• Assist in ensuring all tools and equipment are maintained and fit for purpose.
• Adhere to all Zoo Health and Safety Policies and Procedures.
• Undergo training to maintain skills and course certifications appropriate to the tasks required.
• Support and coach others within the zoo on basic maintenance skills, including the keepers and other maintenance team members.
• Undertake any other relevant tasks to support the Charity.

Our ideal candidate will:

• Have experience in all areas of maintenance, or experience of the building trade.
• Have a set of certified skills (for example, plumbing, carpentry, mechanical or electrical qualifications) or be able to evidence these skills.
• Understand the importance of complying with health and safety in the workplace.
• Be proficient with IT (updating spreadsheets and using word documents).
• Be competent in writing risk assessments and short reports.
• Be physically able to undertake a variety of maintenance tasks.
• Have self-motivation and be able to inspire others.
• Think for themselves, as well as follow instructions.
• Have experience of leading or directing a team of unskilled people.
• Appreciate animal needs and stand behind our values and principles.