WZ Seasonal Animal Keeper – Elephants

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.

An opening has arisen for a Seasonal Keeper on our Elephant section at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The Elephant section at Whipsnade Zoo is constantly evolving ensuring the highest standards of welfare and research is being carried out. This position will also assist the Team Leader, Deputy Team Leader, and other Senior Keepers in all aspects of their work but primarily the care of the animals, ensuring high standards of animal welfare, animal husbandry and the recording of data so evidence-based decisions can be made.

• Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals and reporting any problems to the team leader or senior staff

• Ensuring that conditions for animals are of the highest standards and reporting any problems, including defects or repairs required to enclosures, to the senior staff on section and relevant departments required.

• Monitoring behaviour through recorded CCTV footage to ensure evidence-based decisions are being made.

• Implement enrichment and come up with new enrichment ideas.

• Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.

• Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and designing enrichment devices.

• Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are always followed.

• Assisting with the movement and training of animals using operant conditioning.

• Continual desire to improve welfare and husbandry.

• Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors and media.

• Supporting broader ZSL lead events such as late evenings and specialist functions.

To download a full job description, please click here

• Be able to work in a team and have good communication skills.

• Have some practical experience ideally within a zoological setting.

• Have strong attention to detail and the ability to clearly convey instruction.

• Have some familiarity with external zoo associations such as BIAZA and EAZA.

• Heavy lifting required.

Please note, the general physical demand classification of this role is heavy work. Tasks will include pushing, pulling, bending and lifting weights ranging from 23 to 45kg.

We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and backgrounds. We actively encourage applications from ethnic minority candidates as those demographics are currently under-represented across ZSL

What do we offer?

You will have access to a blended program of Wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program as well as regular webinars and activities around mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing. The opportunity to be part of an organisation that is committed to improving diversity and inclusion.

Other benefits include 25 days holiday, life assurance, stakeholder pension (ZSL will also match further contributions you may choose to make up to a further 5% – limited to 12% employer contributions), complimentary zoo tickets with a 30% discount in shops and online, subsidized canteen, enhanced paternity and maternity leave, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, discounted gym membership and access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities.

Ultimately, you’ll know that you’ll help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the “Apply for this job online” button.

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) on Wednesday 12th April 2023

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.

Department and section: Zoos and Engagement – Z&E Whipsnade – Animal Operations WZ – Elephants

Post End Date: 12/04/2023

Advertised salary range (including enhancements): £9.50 per hour

External Company URL: https://www.zsl.org/