Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
Lead Keeper - Hoofstock
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ZSL is looking for a Curatorial Lead Keeper within the Hoofstock
ZSL is looking for a Curatorial Lead Keeper within the Hoofstock to join the Hoofstock section of our Animal Department at the iconic London Zoo, Regents Park.
This hands-on role is suited to an experienced keeper with demonstrable experience working with Hoofstock, supported by strong and evolving taxonomic knowledge, including an understanding of species planning, EEP management, and Hoofstock best practice guidelines.
Working under the direction of the Section Manager and Curator of Mammals, the Curatorial Lead Keeper will apply advanced husbandry and species knowledge to support section breeding programmes, animal transfers, updates to the species plan, and accurate record keeping. While the role does not include direct line management, it provides specialist advice and practical support to colleagues.
This role is offered on a full-time basis, working 37.5 hours per week. As our zoos are open seven days a week, your schedule will follow a rota, which includes weekends and bank holidays. We aim to balance business needs with personal flexibility, so you’ll have advance notice of your shifts to help plan your time.
Key Responsibilities
- Zoo Network: Maintain a strong zoo network and connection with BIAZA and EAZA.
- Record Keeping & ZIMS: Ensure ZIMS is used effectively across the Hoofstock section.
- Species Planning: Apply specialist experience and knowledge to maintain an active species plan, support breeding recommendations, and coordinate animal transfers, introductions, and rearing guidance.
- Research and advise: Lead and manage research projects across the section, applying robust scientific research methods to develop and implement evidence-based care, best practice and conservation initiatives.
- Hands-on Animal Care: Work as an active member of the keeper team, supporting daily husbandry duties and maintaining excellent hygiene and housekeeping standards.
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We are seeking a candidate who can demonstrate:
- Significant practical experience working with Hoofstock within a zoological setting.
- Strong practical capability and genuine enthusiasm for species planning.
- Qualification in Zoo Animal Management or equivalent experience.
- Ability to interpret and apply research to species planning, conservation initiatives and best practice guidelines.
- Involvement in communities of interest with regards to Hoofstock Management in zoos, including networks in BIAZA and EAZA. Previous management of EEPs is an advantage.
- Ability to organise and prioritise workload while supporting collaborative team delivery.
This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.
We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.
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What We Offer?
Alongside the opportunity to do purpose-driven work that helps create a world where wildlife thrives, you'll enjoy a range of benefits, including:
- Up to 12% contributory pension
- Flexible working options
- 25 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays, increasing with service
- Enhanced family-friendly policies
- Life assurance from day one (for eligible employees)
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
- Access to our staff Equality Networks
- Complimentary London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo tickets, plus retail discounts
- Cycle2Work scheme and interest-free season ticket loans (for eligible London-based employees)
You can find the full details of our benefits in the attached Benefits Guide.
We may close this role early or extend the closing date due to the number of applications we receive, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
We anonymise applications until interview stage to ensure a fair hiring process. It’s important to highlight your unique skills, experience, and knowledge. Over reliance on AI-generated content may miss key criteria outlined in the job description and reduce the effectiveness of your application.
If you have any questions about this role, we’d love to hear from you! Please get in touch with our recruitment team at - recruitment@zsl.org
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