British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Animal Keeper Intern
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Animal Keeper Intern
The Living Rainforest
Work Experience – Animal Department
Closing date for applications: 9th July 2026
** Sector:** Animal Care ** Type:** Work Experience ** Contract type:** Full-time, voluntary ** Salary:** N/A ** Location:** Near Newbury, Berkshire
Contact: Robyn Daniels
About The Living Rainforest
The Trust for Sustainable Living is a registered charity running The Living Rainforest visitor centre near Newbury, Berkshire. Our animal collection (over 60 species) lives in three tropical glasshouses and includes callitrichids, toucans, turacos, snakes, chelonia, stingrays, dendrobatids, and invertebrates.
Role Overview
Due to unforeseen circumstances, a work placement opportunity has opened in our Animal Department for September 2026 (tbc until June 2027). This is an unpaid but hands-on experience, ideal for gaining essential industry experience.
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Responsibilities
Daily Tasks:
- Learn animal husbandry (feeding, enclosure maintenance, daily record-keeping, diet prep, and health checks).
- Train and supervise existing volunteers, assist with new volunteer recruitment and student work experience.
Training & Engagement:
- Receive practical training for keeper talks (including holiday sessions).
- Participate in keeper experiences for visitors.
Wider Knowledge Gained:
- Exposure to veterinary care, enclosure design, record-keeping systems.
- Possibility to attend internal meetings (ethics committees/team updates).
Terms of Placment
- ** Duration:** 9–10 months (Sep 2026–Jun 2027).
- Hours: 8:30am–5pm, 5 days/week on a rota system (including weekends/bank holidays).
- Travel: Reasonable reimbursement for transportation (self-arranged due to limited public transport).
Skills and Benefits: The role offers practical, real-world experience across diverse species, mentorship in a skilled team, and a chance to contribute to a dynamic summer attraction.
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Applicant Criteria
This placement suits candidates:
- Studying: or holding an animal-related qualification (e.g., zoology, animal care, vet science).
- Enthusiastic, hard-working, and eager to learn new skills.
- Independent transport required (no public transport available in the area).
Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and covering letter to robynd@livingrainforest.org, outlining your experience and motivations. Applications close 7th July 2026.
Note: Due to high competition, unsuccessful applicants will not be contacted by us. Ahead of role clarification, we operate an equal opportunities policy and take DBS checks for all applicants aged 16+.
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