Job opportunities

Retail Assistant

Are you an animal lover with a passion for people, retail, and making a real difference? 
We’re looking for an enthusiastic Part-Time Retail Assistant to join our friendly and dynamic team at The Big Cat Sanctuary – a truly unique and inspiring place to work.

This isn’t your average retail role. Every sale you make directly supports our vital conservation work, helping to protect some of the world’s most incredible big cats. If you enjoy engaging with customers, thrive in a team environment, and want your work to have genuine purpose, we’d love to hear from you.

The Role
As a Retail Assistant, you’ll play a key part in delivering an excellent visitor experience while maximising income to support the Sanctuary’s mission. Your responsibilities will include:
•    Supporting the smooth day-to-day running of our retail outlets
•    Providing friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging customer service to visitors, staff, and volunteers
•    Operating the till and accurately handling predominantly card, and some cash, transactions
•    Actively seeking opportunities to upsell and maximise income for The Big Cat Sanctuary
•    Receiving deliveries, unpacking, pricing, and replenishing stock
•    Maintaining clean, tidy, and visually appealing retail spaces and displays
•    Assisting with stock control, including regular stock checks and annual stock takes
•    Helping to change and improve retail displays in line with seasonal events and promotions
•    Supporting retail procurement by helping to maintain appropriate stock levels and value for money
•    Contributing to the development and delivery of online retail sales
•    Remaining vigilant to minimise stock loss and ensure retail and stock areas are kept secure
•    Ensuring fire exits and escape routes are kept clear at all times
•    Understanding and complying with health & safety and fire procedures

What We’re Looking For
•    Previous experience in a retail environment
•    Excellent customer service and communication skills
•    Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
•    Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
•    Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
•    A flexible approach to working hours, including regular weekend working
•    A full, clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle (the Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport)
•    Eligibility to live and work in the UK in line with the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996

What to Expect
•    Part-time, permanent role (typically 24–32 hours per week)
•    Working hours generally between 08:00–17:00, to cover 7 days a week on a variable rota
•    Pay at the National Minimum Wage (£12.71 per hour for anyone over 21)
•    On-site role at The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn, Kent

Why Work With Us
    Join a passionate, collaborative team dedicated to the care of big cats and an exceptional staff experience
    Access to Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme
    Staff discounts and other benefits, including free access to UK and European zoos and collections, and a company Conservation Award (giving team members the chance to travel together to one of our supported global conservation project partners)
    Regular team events and celebrations
    Full uniform provided