Zookeeper

We are seeking a dedicated individual to join our team as an Amphibian Keeper at ZSL London Zoo. This role will involve the management and maintenance of amphibian species, ensuring high standards of animal husbandry and welfare in line with best practice protocols.

The ideal candidate will have experience in freshwater management and a strong understanding of the specific health requirements and risks associated with working with threatened amphibians. As part of the wider Ectotherms team, the successful candidate will also contribute to the care of a diverse range of species across the department, including reptiles, terrestrial invertebrates, and marine species.

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, including water quality management.
• Contribute to the development of high standards of husbandry and welfare, developing innovative, enriching, and aesthetic habitats with the team.
• Observe the behaviour, health and security of animals and report concerns and problems to Lead Keepers or Section Manager.
• Assist and develop animal training and enrichment programmes.
• Administration of veterinary treatments under the direction of the Veterinary Team.
• Create a positive visitor experience by engaging effectively with customers through talks and demonstrations.
• Engage with the curatorial team and support conservation and research activity.
• Data entry to animal records and onto daily record sheets, risk assessments and the ZIMS database.
• To ensure that the policy for equality and diversity is adhered to and promoted in all aspects of the post holder’s work. 

Essential - Experience

• Successful completion of the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) qualification (or equivalent).
• At least 2 years practical experience of working with animals in a Zoo or Aquarium.
• Significant experience in the practical management of Amphibian species.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

• A knowledge of water quality and water quality management in Zoos and Aquaria.
• A good knowledge of LSS equipment associated with high quality herptile care, and its management.
• Ability to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department.
• Ability to deliver keeper talks and presentations.
• 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
• Capable of supporting volunteers, apprentices, students, and colleagues as requested.
• A presentable appearance through following uniform and clothing policy.

Additional Requirements

• A willingness to work with venomous and Category 1 reptiles.
• This post will require extensive indoor working within rooms with environments that vary significantly during the year to mimic both temperate and tropical environs.
• Strong commitment to creating a culture that lives ZSL values and commitment to safeguarding, equality and diversity (collaborative, inspiring, inclusive, innovative, impactful and ethical).
• The ZSL Zoos operate 7 days a week and requires an average of 37.5 hours per week on a rota (which includes weekends and bank holidays).
• This role has significant physical demands and involves long periods of standing, walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, pushing, pulling, etc. 

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including the candidate's right to work in the UK.

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.  

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