Job opportunities

Part time Weekend Animal Keeper – domestic animals – 3 days per week

We have an opportunity for a weekend Animal Keeper to support our Herbivores Team at Northumberland Zoo. This role will have the opportunity to work with domestic animals on our barn section, including equine, alpacas and goats. You will work alongside the animal team to ensure the highest possible standards of animal husbandry, supporting the running of the team during our busiest times at weekends. You will be responsible for the development of animal exhibits to promote natural behaviour and top-quality presentation, also, educational opportunities for zoo visitors in line with the zoo’s missions of conservation, education and sustainability.

Main Duties & Job Responsibilities

·         Day to day husbandry routines for the animals on our barn section including health and welfare monitoring

·         Researching and implementing behavioural and environmental enrichment opportunities for various species

·         Refurbishing and maintaining exhibits with species specific suitability in mind to promote natural behaviour and ensuring high standards of presentation for zoo visitors

·         Strict adherence to risk assessments, bio security and safe working practices.

·         Taking ownership for the presentation of the wider zoo site by maintaining high standards of presentation with a positive attitude and professional manner.

·         Carrying out animal experiences and talks ensuring the zoos mission messages are being delivered. This may also include zoo events.

Skills and Experience

·         At least 6 months of zoo work experience working with animals in a zoo or farm park environment

·         Be qualified in an appropriate captive wild animal husbandry, biological or conservation discipline

·         Must have high animal welfare standards with regards to the care and daily husbandry routines

·         Experience implementing animal enrichment

·         Have great observational skills when working with the animals in the park, understanding animal behaviour and the ability to keep accurate records relating to animal welfare

·         Be confident in presenting engaging, educational messages to audiences.

General

·         Full driver's license and access to vehicle required due to rural setting of zoo

·         Have great team working and communication skills and adaptability to suit the needs of the role

·         Be able to work effectively and with minimum supervision within a timely manner

·         Have strong interpersonal skills and be confident to interact with the public

·         Be physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weathers

·         Take responsibility for own personal development, seeking out opportunities to learn new skills

Benefits

·         24 hrs per week across 3 days, includes every weekend plus one other day

·         Accrued holidays pro rata, plus your birthday off after successful probation

·         Company sick pay package after successful probation

·         Enrolment in pension scheme with employer contributions of 3% if applicable

·         £5 daily food allowance in the zoo café and discount in zoo shop

·         Complimentary Zoo admission tickets for family and friends