The Reptile Keeper is responsible for the management, husbandry, and welfare of Hamerton Zoo Park’s lower-order animal collection, including reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. This role plays a key part in maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare, biosecurity, record-keeping, and public engagement, in line with current SSSMZP, BIAZA, and internal zoo standards.
As a member of the animal team, the post holder will contribute to the smooth day-to-day operation of the zoo.
Key Responsibilities
Animal Care & Welfare
- Carry out daily husbandry, feeding, observation, and monitoring of reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, including venomous species, large snakes, crocodilians, and other specialist taxa.
- Monitor animal health and behaviour, reporting concerns promptly and administering medications under veterinary guidance where required.
- Provide appropriate, species-specific enrichment and contribute to ongoing improvements in animal welfare.
- Assist with breeding programmes, animal movements, and habitat design as required.
Enclosure & Collection Management
- Maintain enclosures and associated planted areas to the highest welfare, hygiene, and presentation standards, across all locations on site.
- Ensure all managed areas meet or exceed the standards and documentation required by the current SSSMZP and BIAZA guidelines.
- Support effective feed preparation, storage, stock control, and deliveries.
Records, Compliance & Professional Standards
- Maintain thorough, accurate, and consistent records relating to animal care, health, breeding, and movements.
- Work in full compliance with Hamerton Zoo Park policies, risk assessments, and the employee handbook.
- Participate in inspections and audits as required.
Teamwork, Supervision & Development
- Provide appropriate supervision and support for work experience students and volunteers, in line with safeguarding policies and workplace values.
- Assist with animal contact sessions when required, maintaining detailed knowledge of individual animals involved.
Training, Learning & Development
- Actively engage in ongoing training and professional development to maintain current knowledge of best-practice husbandry.
- Proactively identify relevant training opportunities and present these to the Head Keeper for consideration.
Public Engagement & Conservation
- Engage with visitors through talks, informal interactions, and educational activities, promoting understanding of reptiles, conservation, and the zoo’s work.
- Contribute to the zoo’s wider conservation, sustainability, and education objectives.
General
- Undertake any reasonable task requested by your supervisor in support of zoo operations.
Apply for this job:
To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a cover letter for the attention of Katherine via the link below.
Please mention Jobs With Animals when applying for this role.