The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

ZSL is looking for a Apprentice Keeper in our Hoofstock department. The successful candidate will be expected to ensure high standards of animal welfare and animal husbandry are carried out daily and to keep daily checks and records of animals health and behaviours and report to senior members of the team. Good communication skills and experience of dealing with the public is essential, together with the ability to work effectively within a team. You will work with a nominated learning provider to develop occupational standards, (knowledge, skills and behaviours), as set out in the Level 3 Keeper and Aquarist Apprentice standard.

• Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
• Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas.
• Assisting with record keeping via a Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), including personal relevant observations of animal behaviour, health and welfare.
• Assisting senior keepers, and other colleagues, with veterinary, training and other relevant animal related procedures.
• Supporting positive visitor experiences by good customer service and professional visitor engagement.
• Supporting broader ZSL events as instructed, such as late evening or weekend functions, Zoo Nights, PR photo calls, animal encounters and keeper for a day.
• Monitoring the health and safety of visitors and welfare of animals in enhanced animal contact situations, including walkthrough exhibits and animal encounters. Communicating the protocol to visitors in a friendly and time
• To be committed to all aspects of training related to the job and apprenticeship.ly manner.
• Preparing a portfolio to support the End Point Assessment (EPA) which involves a multiple-choice test, observations and a professional discussion based on portfolio for the apprenticeship scheme.
• This post requires weekend and bank holiday working and flexibility with rotas at short notice. This may include a sudden change of start or finishing time.

Please click here for the full job description

Person Specification

• Being able to work in a large team.
• Attention to detail and the ability to follow strict protocols.
• Good communication skills, teamwork, and experience of dealing with the public are essential.
• This is a physically demanding position, dependant on section either working indoors in artificially high &/or humid conditions or extensive outside working with direct exposure to the weather.

Please note: The position is located at London Zoo. Working hours are an average of 37.5 per week worked within an annual roster, which includes bank holidays and weekends.

What do we offer?

You will have access to a blended program of Wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program as well as regular webinars and activities around mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing. The opportunity to be part of an organisation that is committed to improving diversity and inclusion.

Other benefits include 25 days holiday, life assurance, stakeholder pension (employer contribution is matched up to 12%), complimentary zoo tickets with a 30% discount in shops and online, subsidised canteen, enhanced paternity and maternity leave, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, subsidised gym membership and access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities.

Ultimately, you’ll know that you’ll help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button. If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) Monday 22nd May 2023

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 20872