Ready to step into a dynamic world of animal care, conservation and unforgettable guest experiences as a Hoofstock Zoo Keeper at Chessington World of Adventures Resort?
At Chessington, our adventurers don’t just visit a zoo, they enter a living, breathing environment where every habitat is designed to inspire, educate and protect. As a Hoofstock Keeper, no two days are ever the same. You’ll take an active role in the day-to-day running of the collection, including delivery of the highest standards of animal husbandry required for species such as zebra, giraffe, rhino and a number of domestic species.
You’ll work closely with the Zoo Supervisor and wider Hoofstock Team to support the safe and effective delivery of the zoo operation. This includes ensuring all animal welfare, training, presentation, guest experience and education standards are consistently met to the highest level, while supporting the wider Resort in achieving its business objectives.
You will play a key role in maintaining accurate animal records and documentation, ensuring ZIMS is kept fully up to date, and supporting the highest standards of reporting and compliance in line with the Zoo Licence and the Secretary of State’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice. You’ll also contribute to the delivery of VIP experiences, engaging with guests in a professional, safe and on brand manner while helping to create memorable moments.
This is a hands-on role where animal welfare comes first. You’ll ensure optimal standards of hygiene, nutrition, veterinary support and environmental enrichment are maintained, working alongside colleagues to always uphold best practice. You’ll also support training programmes, participate in animal presentations, and contribute to conservation, education and research initiatives across the Resort.
You’ll be part of a team that actively looks to improve the guest experience, supporting ideas that increase engagement, dwell time and understanding of the animals in our care. You will also be expected to work collaboratively across the wider zoo and Resort teams, communicating clearly and professionally, and helping to maintain a positive, supportive working culture.
This is a full-time role, working a flexible pattern across 5 days out of 7, including weekends and bank holidays.
- A degree in Animal Science, Zoology, Biology or a related field (desirable)
- Experience working in a zoo or equivalent animal care environment
- Strong experience in animal husbandry and welfare within a professional collection
- Experience with hoofstock species such as zebra, giraffe, rhino or similar would be advantageous
- Competent in maintaining accurate animal records, ideally with working knowledge of ZIMS
- Experience supporting animal training, veterinary procedures and capture or restraint
- Confident communicator with experience delivering talks, presentations or guest engagement activities
- Strong understanding of health and safety procedures within a zoo environment, including risk assessments and safe systems of work
- Able to work calmly and effectively under pressure in a fast-paced operational environment
- Strong attention to detail while maintaining awareness of wider operational goals
- Team player with a positive, proactive and flexible approach
- Adaptable and willing to respond to changing priorities at short notice
- Passionate about animal care, welfare and conservation with a drive to develop your career further
- Willing to support wider Resort operations, including education, guest experience and conservation initiatives
- Flexible availability around park hours, including weekends and holidays
Benefits
- 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants
- 40% off LEGO online
- Merlin Magic Pass – giving you free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends every year
- Enjoy the Ride Pass – giving you and 5 others a Merlin Annual Pass (Gold Edition)
- X2 volunteer days a year
- Discounted rates at Merlin hotels all over the world
- Employee pricing up to 55% off cinema tickets
Sound like your next adventure? Apply now and be part of our incredible world.
Please mention Jobs With Animals when applying for this role.