Animal Carer

Animal Carer

Isle of Wight Zoo

Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight Zoo is the Island’s original and leading zoo which specialises in the care and conservation of big cats and lemurs. It is located on the popular East coast of the Isle of Wight, overlooking a spectacular sandy beach, and is just half an hour’s drive away from the capital town. The zoo is privately operated by a proactive and dedicated team who strive for excellence in both animal and visitor care.

A rare opportunity has arisen for an Animal Carer to join this friendly zoo which prides itself on its inclusive working environment. The successful candidate will become part of a small but ambitious zoo team and will therefore need to be highly adaptable and self-motivated to assist across a range of operational areas. The zoo demands a strong work ethic which puts animal welfare first at all times.  A passion and aptitude for educating and engaging the public and wider community is also of paramount importance to this position.

Working knowledge of animal husbandry is a vital aspect of the post. Applicants must be in a position to relocate to the Isle of Wight.

To apply online please visit the vacancies section of our website: www.isleofwightzoo.com/recruitment.aspx

Closing date for applications: Friday 16th January 2015

General post info:

• Permanent

• 40-45 hrs/wk

Job spec:

• Care and management of a range of species including:

o Provision of food and water

o Butchery activities including manual handling

o Cleaning out animal accommodation

o Assisting in provision of veterinary care

o Design and provision of behavioural/environmental enrichment including operant conditioning

o Assisting with development of nutrition and preventative health care programmes

o Habitat decoration and landscaping

o Enclosure security and general maintenance/upkeep

o Record keeping

o Capture and restraint

• Public education

o Provision of daily keeper talks, feeding times and animal encounters

o Assisting in the development of public education programme

o Involvement in other educational activities

• Visitor experiences

o Provision of  ‘Hands on Wildlife’ experiences

o Assisting with special events and workshops

• Site upkeep

o Assisting with painting and sweeping

o Gardening and weed control

o Cleaning and presentation of facilities

o Waste management

Key skills/attributes:

• Natural empathy for animals and good working knowledge of contemporary health and welfare practices

• Hardworking, energetic and physically fit, able to withstand adverse weather conditions

• Good team worker but also confident and motivated to work independently

• Cheerful disposition with a positive ‘can do’ attitude and a great sense of humour

• Responsible, reliable and able to adhere to organizational and departmental policies and procedures

• Ability to communicate effectively to a diverse audience 

• Able to deliver outstanding customer care at all times

• Great attention to detail and ability to work safely and efficiently

• Motivated to develop professionally

• Genuine desire to contribute towards the development and success of the organization

Required:

• Practical experience working with animals

• Experience with public education

• Ability to work outdoors in all weathers

• Good level of physical fitness and stamina

• Willing to work weekends and holidays as rosters require

• Good literacy and numerical skills

Advantageous

• Experience working with large carnivores, primates and reptiles

• Formal animal care qualifications eg DMZAA

• First Aid certificate

• Health and Safety qualifications

• Chainsaw certificate

• Full driving licence