Experienced keeper - special interest birds East of England
Job description
Linton Zoo Conservation Park
Linton Zoo Conservation Park currently has a full-time permanent keeper position available for an experienced, highly motivated, reliable and enthusiastic individual. This position is for someone with a special interest in birds to assist in the care of our fantastic range of exotic birds including; hornbills, turacos, aracaris, parrots, vultures, Bali starling, blue crowned laughingthrush and owls. As members of BIAZA and EAZA many of the species are part of European Breeding Programmes.
Applicants must have a minimum of 2 years prior experience paid work with avian species within a zoological environment. The successful candidate will also be responsible for the day-to-day animal husbandry, including cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas, for a range of other species including mammals, reptiles and invertebrates.
This is a physically demanding role which requires kneeling, crawling, climbing etc. and the ability to lift heavy food, straw bales etc. in varying weather conditions. The successful candidate will be expected to work to a flexible rota as necessary to include weekends, Public holidays and occasional evenings. Holidays should be taken off season.
The applicant must be flexible about their duties within the zoo and should be prepared to be involved in all aspects of animal care associated with the daily, safe and smooth running of a family owned and managed conservation and education park with a diverse collection of animals.
This is a full time role working an average of 40 hours a week over 5 days, working days will vary over a 7 day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. The salary for this position is £20,176.00 - £22,447.10 per annum for a qualified keeper (experience related scale), or £14,560.00 - £19,525.35 per annum for a trainee keeper (age related scale).
This is a permanent position with a start date as soon as is possible. There will be the opportunity to advance to a senior position for the right candidate.
Applicants should:
- be hard working, conscientious and uphold high standards of animal husbandry and welfare.
- have good attention to detail and a consistent level of work standard is essential
- have patience! animals – like humans – may not do what you want when you want them to
- have the ability to work both individually or as part of a team and have excellent communication skills
- have exceptional attendance and time keeping skills.
- be proficient in public speaking or have the confidence to learn
- be willing to assist with other areas of the park, including tours, educational presentations, general maintenance and upkeep of public areas and the supervision and training of trainee keepers
- have ideally completed the DMZAA course or hold an equivalent qualification,
- have a broad knowledge of husbandry practices, an understanding of Zoo licence regulations and a minimum of 2 years paid work in a similar role
- preferably have a full driving licence and car
