Zoo supervisor

We’re sorry the closing date for this post has passed. Please check our current vacancies for other positions that may be of interest to you.

We’re looking for a reliable, practical, pro-active and adaptable person to join our team of zoo keepers.

Do you enjoy working as part of a team? Can you motivate others and mentor staff to reach their full potential? Yes? Then this may be the role for you!

As zoo supervisor you’ll be liaising with the senior zoo team on a daily basis to ensure the department runs smoothly. A true team player, you’ll be responsible for supporting the team, assisting with daily operations, ensuring standards are maintained and procedures adhered to. You’ll need a ‘can-do’, professional attitude, leading by example and act as an ambassador for the company.

A typical day as a zoo supervisor will involve:

• Operationally supporting the keepers with daily cleaning and feeding routines. The ability to work across all sections is essential.
• Supporting the head keepers with delegated duties as required, in particular as an on the ground supervisor and mentor for the team.
• Ensuring the zoo is presentable and ready to open.
• Taking the lead with guest service, including the delivery of public talks, experiences and educational presentations.
• Assisting with the company work experience programme, chaperoning candidates and acting as a point of contact.
• Taking the lead with health and safety; ensuring policies and procedures are always adhered to, checks completed standards maintained. This includes daily administration and record upkeep through the company health and safety management system (Mobaro).

Other duties will include overseeing the enrichment library, supporting the team with conservation awareness days, as well as delivering training as required and in accordance with the company training strategy.

The successful candidate will need to have proven practical experience of working with a range of animals within a zoological collection. Hold qualifications to degree level in zoology or a related subject, and full driving licence. Experience of agricultural machinery such as tractor and dumper is advantageous.

You’ll need to demonstrate strong communication skills with the ability to communicate positively, clearly and professionally with team members across the organisation as well as apply appropriate judgement when discussing the Company showing discretion and confidentiality. As part of our supervisory family, you’ll need to be full of energy and enthusiasm, be people focused and willing to learn. Supervisory and team leading experience is desirable. Please note this is an operational and physically demanding role, working across all sections from birds to large hoof stock stables.

Applicants must be flexible in their working hours. Hours of work will be 40 hours per week on a schedule of five days out of seven, including weekends and Bank Holidays as scheduled.

How do I apply?

Complete the online application form and attach your curriculum vitae highlighting your experience and skills, including why you should be considered for this role.

Please note, due to the high volume of applications, we regret we’re only able to contact those applicants who’ve been shortlisted for interview. If you do not hear from us within 21 days of the closing date then we have decided not to take your application further at this time.

Closing date: 15 March 2019 (interviews will be held week commencing 18 March 2019)