British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Senior Keeper - Carnivore Section

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Colchester Zoological Society
East Anglia
Closing date for applications is: 7th Aug 2026
Contact: Liz Butcher (vacancies@colchesterzoo.org)
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: £29,432 per annum
Colchester Zoological Society (CZS) is home to over 150 species and is dedicated to supporting conservation projects around the globe. As an award-winning visitor attraction with over 1 million guests visiting each year, every staff member at the zoo works together to ensure that our guests have an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.
About the Role
An exciting position has arisen for a Senior Keeper to join our team and contribute to our mission at Colchester Zoo in a full-time role working within our carnivore department; a mixed taxa section responsible for:
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Responsibilities
The candidate will work within the Animal Department to carry out husbandry duties and maintain high standards of welfare for the animal species in their care. As a Senior Keeper, the candidate will be required to:
- Input ideas for the continual progression and development of animal husbandry, breeding management, and enclosure design on the section.
- Ensure safe working protocols and practices.
- Have a good understanding of risk assessments.
- Deliver enclosure encounters and experiences to zoo visitors for a range of species across the section.


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Requirements
We are looking for an individual who is highly motivated and hardworking, with a minimum of 4 years’ experience working in a zoological collection. A personnel specification is available on the job description detailing essential requirements for the position.
How to Apply
Please send a copy of your CV, our application form (Application Form 2023), and a covering letter for the attention of Mrs Liz Butcher, Living Collections Manager, by email to vacancies@colchesterzoo.org.
Further Information
Further details of the job role can be found here: Colchester Zoological Society Careers
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