Zookeeper - Predators

ZSL is seeking 6 month fixed-term contract for a zookeeper on the Predator section of the animal department. The role will involve the day-to-day husbandry of mammals including African lions, Amur tigers, African wild dogs, Brown bears, Northern cheetah, lynx, wolverine, short-clawed otters, aardvark, porcupine and meerkats. The successful candidate will be expected to deliver high standards of animal welfare and husbandry, be involved in training and enrichment programs, be a good communicator and be able to positively interact with visitors. This position will also assist the section manager, team leader and other team members in all aspects of their work but primarily to ensure high standards of animal welfare and animal husbandry are routinely carried out.

Key responsibilities:

• Preparation of approved diets and the carrying out of feeding procedures.
• Maintaining the highest standards of hygiene by cleaning and maintaining exhibits, equipment, and other designated areas.
• Contribute to the development of high standards of husbandry and welfare, developing innovative, enriching, and aesthetic enclosures with the team.
• Observe the behaviour, health and security of animals and report concerns and problems to Lead Keepers or Section Manager.

ABOUT YOU

• Successful completion of the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) qualification (or equivalent).
• Practical experience of working with animals in a Zoo or aquarium (preferably animal management of exotic species).
• Ability to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department.
• Ability to think sustainably and maximise productivity and efficiency.
• An ability to work as part of a team as well as an individual to complete section tasks.
• Demonstrates respectful, punctual, reliable, trustworthy, and diligent behaviour.
• Must hold a full, valid UK Driving Licence

We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage. We are committed to ensuring our teams can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination. ZSL has active equality networks for our staff with lived experience and those who provide active allyship in Race and Culture, Team Pride, Disability Network, and Menopause Network, complemented by our strategic EDI Steering Group.

ABOUT US

We're ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we're working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

What do we offer?

At ZSL, we are proud of our approach to employee benefits. Our benefits include:

• Our vision and purpose - you'll work alongside colleagues who are passionate about science-led conservation, knowing that you will help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct
• Pension scheme -we offer a generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
• Flexible working – talk to us about your flexible working requirements and we will do everything we can to make sure you work in a way that suits you
• Holidays – 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays
• Wellbeing – access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Life assurance – eligible employees will be enrolled in ZSL's life assurance scheme from their first day
• Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30% discount in online and retail shops
• Cycle2Work - our cycle to work scheme enables you to lease a bicycle
• Season ticket loan - we offer an interest free loan for eligibly London-based employees to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work
• Family friendly policies – we offer enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages

NB: We reserve the right to close our advertisement early or extend the advertising date until a suitable candidate has been found.

BIAZA's office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Contact outside of those times will get a response when we are next in the office.

If your enquiry is urgent and you need a response before the BIAZA office reopens, please call Jo Judge on If you wish to reach one of our members, please contact them directly.

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales number Registered Office Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY. Registered Charity Number is and SC Scotland)