British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Senior Keeper Mammals
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Blackpool Zoo
North West
Closing date for applications is: 2nd Aug 2026
Contact: Leah Lancashire (leah.lancashire@blackpoolzoo.org.uk)
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: £29,550
About Us
Blackpool Zoo is currently looking to recruit an experienced Senior Keeper to join our Mammal Section team. The successful candidate will work alongside the existing team in the daily care and husbandry of our animal collection, whilst also providing support and guidance to other keepers within the section. The zoo houses a wide range of mammal species, from Cotton-top Tamarins to Asian Elephants, and applicants should have experience working with a wide range of mammal taxa.
The Zoo is part of Parque Reunidos, one of the world’s leading owners and operators of leisure attractions. With over 50 years of experience and a position among the top five global operators of regional leisure parks, the group delivers authentic, memorable experiences to millions of visitors across the globe each year.
Role Overview
As a Senior Animal Keeper at Blackpool Zoo, you will play a crucial role in the care, management, and enrichment of our diverse animal collection. You will help support a team of keepers, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health, and husbandry. This position requires a hands-on approach and a deep commitment to the animals under our care.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
The successful applicant will be a proven team player with a good knowledge of the zoological industry and an understanding of the requirements needed to maintain and continuously improve the husbandry and welfare of the animal species under their care. You will be required to work with all species on your section in a safe and secure manner and will have excellent training skills using positive reinforcement methods.
As a Senior Animal Keeper, you may be expected to oversee and supervise other staff members and on occasions manage the section in the absence of the Section Manager, this is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to progress in their career.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the daily care and management of a specific section of the zoo, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animal health.
- Develop and implement enrichment programs to promote natural behaviours and enhance animal well-being.
- Supervise and mentor seasonal keepers, trainee keepers and animal keepers, providing training and guidance to ensure best practices in animal care.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff to monitor and address the health needs of the animals.
- Maintain accurate records of animal care, health, and behaviour.
- Engage with the public through educational talks, demonstrations, and interactive experiences.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Requirements
- Minimum of 5 year's keeping experience with some category 1 species (Elephants, Big Cats or Apes) desirable.
- Extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare, and enrichment practices.
- Strong leadership and team management skills with a focus on mentoring and motivation
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- You should possess the Diploma in The Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or an equivalent qualification
- A full UK Driving license
Apply For This Job
How to apply:
Please send a CV and detailed covering letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the role to Leah Lancashire, Personnel Manager, by emailing leah.lancashire@blackpoolzoo.org.uk or by posting to Leah Lancashire, Personnel Manager, Blackpool Zoo, East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8PP
Please note, we will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews throughout the advertising period for this role. The role may therefore be filled prior to the closing date. We would encourage you to submit your application form as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
If you have not heard from us within 14 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion. We are only able to provide individual feedback to those candidates who are successful through to the interview stage.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location