Job opportunities

Senior Zookeeper

About this role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Zookeeper at Tilgate Park Zoo where we are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate individual to join our team.

Tilgate Park Zoo is a top tourist attraction having been inducted into the Trip Advisor Hall of Fame and the park receives upwards of 750,000 visitors per year.

As part of a dynamic team caring for a collection of around 500 animals you will be involved in all aspects of the Zoo, from enclosure creation through to animal welfare and conservation projects. The Zoo has undergone a period of change and looking to fully embed our high standard of operation as we attract new species to enhance our visitor experience.

You will be a knowledgeable individual who holds a (Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals) DMZAA or equivalent qualification ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and operating procedures.

You will be working with a range of exotic species whilst helping to deliver the highest levels of animal husbandry. The role is a varied one, if successful you will get the chance to work with a wide range of taxa, small mammals, domestic stock, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.

Your roles and responsibilities will include but are not limited to, all elements of animal husbandry, enclosure maintenance and site maintenance. You will work as part of a small team of dedicated colleagues reporting to the Zoo manager and deputising in their absence. As a Senior Zookeeper you need to be highly motivated and able to coach, support and mentoring colleagues but equally able to ensure the administrative and operational work is undertaken. We believe this is an excellent role for those looking to develop their leadership skills along with zoological expertise.

Additional information

This post is from Tuesday to Saturday with Sunday and Monday as non-working days.

For all posts, evening, weekend, Bank Holidays and ‘rest day’ working may be required to cover essential services. See Local Pay Agreement for remuneration.

A full and current UK driving licence will be a requirement of the role.

Satisfactory clearance of a standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be a condition of employment as the post involves regular contact with children and vulnerable adults.

Employee benefits

We offer a generous employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.

Our way of working

Our shared values and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match.

Safer recruitment

Crawley Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.