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Careers in Zoos

In Britain and Ireland there are about 350 zoos, safari parks, bird gardens and aquariams open to the public which employ approximately 3,000 people in full-time positions. BIAZA represents around 70 of those collections and is the professional zoo body in the British Isles and Ireland. Jobs in zoos involving animal work would include: education, animal keeping, research and veterinary work. Some zoos also employ field biologists who work on field projects sponsored by the zoo.


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There are many work sectors that involve animal husbandry to a greater or lesser extent. The role of the zoo or wildlife park keeper is one of the most popular, judging from the number of enquiries BIAZA receives on a daily basis.

Zoo and wildlife park staff have a responsibility both to the animals in their care and to the general public. Working in an animal collection is a question of balancing the needs of the animals and the public’s desire for information.

Work in a zoo or wildlife park is demanding and never stops. Animal keeping staff often work at weekends and, during the summer months, hours are long. Employers, therefore, look for people who have stamina and commitment, as well as love and knowledge of animals.

Be realistic – your love of animals must not be sentimental. The work is often dirty and smelly, and you may often have to work with sick or injured animals and even humanely kill them. Also, working with animals is often very routine, physically demanding, and there can be some health risks; but if you are interested in animals, working with them can be very rewarding.