Hertfordshire Zoo (Registered Charity No. 1108609) has an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly motivated Section Leader to join our diverse and skilled Animal Team in a leadership role.

The Ectotherm Section is responsible for the husbandry and management of a wide range of taxa, including snakes, lizards, chelonians, fish, crocodilians and invertebrates. The section oversees five dedicated ectotherm areas across the zoo, alongside several satellite exhibits located throughout the site, including one of the most highly regarded large snake habitats in the zoo community. Ectotherms play a significant role within Hertfordshire Zoo’s ambitious 25 year Master Plan, which is already underway and will deliver substantial future development and expansion across the site.

As the most senior operational level within the keeper team structure, Section Leaders are responsible for the day to day management of their section while driving the delivery of Hertfordshire Zoo’s long term objectives. They are accountable for maintaining high standards of animal welfare, husbandry, compliance, staff performance and operational efficiency, ensuring their section aligns with the wider strategic direction of the zoo.

This role combines practical animal management with leadership responsibilities. The successful candidate will contribute directly to all aspects of husbandry and welfare, conservation education visitor experiences and team development. They will lead, motivate and support a team of keepers and volunteers while promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

The ideal applicant will be capable of working independently, leading a team effectively, and managing multiple priorities in a fast paced environment. Adaptability, strong organisational skills and the ability to respond positively to changing operational needs are essential within our progressive and continually developing zoo.

Day to day, the successful applicant will maintain an active role within the Ectotherm Section, undertaking the full range of husbandry and animal care duties. The position includes a minimum of one protected office day per week to enable the completion of administrative responsibilities, including compliance requirements, welfare monitoring, record keeping and team leadership duties.

The Section Leader will supervise, mentor and work alongside a team of ectotherm keepers, support keepers and volunteers. As a highly visible representative of the zoo, the successful candidate must be personable, approachable and confident communicating with colleagues, volunteers and visitors alike.

 Job Details

• Full time permanent position (average 38.75 hours per week);Summer hours (April to September): 08:00 to 17:00; Winter hours (October to March): 08:00 to 16:30. Some weekend, bank holiday and overtime working required
• Reports to the Head Keeper, Senior Curator, Directors and Trustees of Hertfordshire Zoo
• Starting salary: £35,867 per annum

 Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee, coordinate and contribute to the day to day and long term care and welfare of all animals within the Ectotherm Section
• Ensure daily security checks, animal husbandry routines, welfare assessments, enrichment programmes and veterinary treatments are completed to the highest standards
• Manage section resources, equipment and stock control efficiently and effectively
• Support behavioural monitoring, research and evidence-based husbandry initiatives, working collaboratively with Conservation Science Manager
• Support development of native species conservation actions, both with ex-situ and in-situ actions, working collaboratively with Species Survival Officer
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records relating to animal care, welfare, species management and staff training
• Manage all members of the Ectotherm Team, including section keepers and cover keepers; conduct regular one to one meetings, appraisals, supporting staff development
• Foster a positive, professional and supportive working environment, addressing concerns promptly and appropriately in line with zoo policies and procedures
• Supervise volunteers and work experience students where required
• Work collaboratively with other Section Leaders and managers to support wider departmental objectives, providing operational support across the animal team when required
• Contribute to the development, implementation and review of species management plans
• Maintain a good understanding of current zoo legislation, industry standards, best practice guidelines and relevant animal welfare requirements
• Contribute to zoo licence inspections, audits and compliance processes as required
• Work within all health and safety procedures and contribute to the ongoing review and improvement of policies and protocols
• Maintain a strong understanding of emergency procedures and ensure all team members are trained and confident in their responsibilities during emergency situations
• Deliver and support high quality conservation education, keeper talks, animal experiences, tours and educational events
• Engage positively with visitors both formally through delivery and informally during daily operations
• Contribute to educational, media and marketing initiatives that promote public understanding of ectotherm species and conservation issues
• Represent Hertfordshire Zoo through professional industry engagement and at external events

 Essential Requirements

• Minimum six years’ proven experience working with and managing a variety of relevant ectotherm species
• Degree level qualification in Animal Management or a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA), alongside relevant practical experience
• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of zoological best practice
• Strong leadership skills and experience leading teams
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities
• Full UK driving licence
• In line with the requirements of the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996, all applicants must have existing rights to reside and work in the UK.

 Desirable Requirements

• Experience working with venomous species
• Experience managing aquatic life support systems
• Previous experience supervising or managing teams
• Experience participating in research and/or conservation projects
• Formal leadership or management training and/or qualifications

What We Offer

• 28 days annual leave plus aditonal day for Christmas Day, increasing with length of service
• Enhanced pay rates for bank holiday working
• Sickness, bereavement and compassionate leave provisions
• Family friendly benefits
• Eligibility for our Conservation Award programme, providing opportunities to visit global conservation partners
• Additional Responsibility Payments where applicable, including first aider and firearms responsibilities
• Access to the Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme, providing support for physical and mental wellbeing, financial advice, family matters and everyday life challenges
• Staff discounts and additional employee benefits
• Regular staff events
• Supported Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, including access to industry training courses, conferences, workshops and professional association memberships

Further details of the position can be found within the full job description and Hertfordshire Zoo’s Keeper Grading and Competency Framework.

Please mention Jobs With Animals when applying for this role.

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