British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Animal Keeper
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Welsh Mountain Zoo - National Zoological Society of Wales
Closing date for applications is: 23rd Oct 2026
Contact: Georgia Hughes - HR Manager at Welsh Mountain Zoo (hr@welshmountainzoo.org)
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: £26,171
Animal Keeper
Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay
Full-time Salary: £26,171 per annum
Working at the Welsh Mountain Zoo is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to be part of a committed, expert team united by a shared passion: Bringing Conservation to Life. And there’s nowhere better to do that than in the breathtaking surroundings of North Wales.
For over 60 years, we’ve been caring for rare and endangered animal and plant species, engaging the public, and inspiring the next generation of conservationists. Now, as we enter an exciting period of growth and investment in our zoo, we’re looking for a skilled and motivated Cover Keeper.
You’ll work closely with our Head of Animals and Animal Team Leaders, helping to ensure the highest standards of animal care and team coordination.
What You’ll Bring
- Significant practical experience gained from working closely with a wide range of species in a zoo/wildlife park setting
- Knowledgeable in science and evidence-based animal husbandry, behaviour, breeding, enrichment, and welfare principles
- Knowledge and practical application of positive reinforcement training techniques
- Proficient in monitoring animal health and behaviour - recording and reporting observations
- Working towards/holds a relevant qualification in animal care or a related field (e.g. Diploma or higher in Animal Management)
- Holds excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Comfortable working as part of a team, but also working unsupervised
- Working towards/able to deploy firearms in emergency situation
- Able to deliver exceptional levels of customer service
- Good verbal and written communication skills to effectively report findings and coordinate with team members.
- Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and handling animals
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Key Responsibilities Include
- Provide daily husbandry including feeding & enrichment for a variety of exotic species
- Safely move, catch and restrain animals using the correct techniques and equipment
- Assist in the treatment and medication of animals
- Clean and maintain habitats to encourage natural behaviours and breeding
- Monitor animal health and behaviour - recording and reporting observations
- Delivering educational and engaging talks and demonstrations on a variety of species
- Work collaboratively as part of a team, supporting wider zoo operations as required
- Work on a rota over 7 days (including weekends and bank holidays), with late lock-ups as required
- Complete all mandatory training and continuing professional development
- Ensure all work aligns with our policies and procedures, including those relating to Animal Welfare, GDPR, Health and Safety, Security, Finance, People, and Volunteering
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Apply now and help us Bring Conservation to Life
If you’re passionate about animal welfare and conservation, looking to take your first step into a management role, and excited to help shape the future of a growing zoo – we’d love to hear from you.
To apply, please send an expression of interest (no more than 2 pages) along with your CV to hr@welshmountainzoo.org. Your expression of interest should outline your motivation for applying for the role and demonstrate how you meet the criteria outlined in this advert.
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