British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Small Mammals Keeper
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Hamerton Zoo Park
Cambridgeshire
Closing date for applications is: 31st Oct 2026
Contact: Katherine Adams (headkeeper@hamertonzoopark.com)
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: £24,784 - £26,227 depending on experience
An exciting position has become available at Hamerton Zoo Park for the role of Small Mammals Keeper looking after a unique range of species including marsupials, Xenarthra and small carnivores. We are looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated and highly motivated individual to join our small, friendly team in an ever-growing collection. With direction from Senior Keepers, this position is responsible for the management, husbandry and welfare of species including Sloth, Armadillo, Meerkats, Southern Aardwolf, Brushtail Possums, Lemurs, Greater Grison and Palm Civets.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure animal husbandry and welfare needs are met to a high standard in accordance with the SSSMZP and BIAZA guidelines
- Provide and monitor appropriate, species-specific enrichment
- Maintain enclosures and associated planted areas, including assisting in enclosure redevelopments to progress animal welfare
- Carry out thorough and consistent record keeping via the use of ZIMS software
- Monitor animal health and behaviour, reporting concerns promptly and administering medications under veterinary guidance and assist with veterinary procedures where required
- Support with the preparation of approved diets
- Provide appropriate supervision and support for work experience students and volunteers, in line with safeguarding policies and workplace values
- Engage and support visitors, which may include delivering animal talks and assisting with visitor experiences, ensuring your message is consistent with company values whilst providing first-class customer service
- Ensure that safety and emergency procedures are always followed
- Assist in the preparation for zoo inspections, ensuring all practices meet and excel zoo licensing requirements
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Requirements
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- A minimum of two years experience in a similar zoological setting, preferably with relevant species knowledge
- Knowledge of modern zoo management and conservation goals
- A higher level animal-based qualification is desirable but not essential
- Willingness to participate in further professional development
- A full UK driving license owing to our rural location
This role requires a five day working week, to include weekends and bank holidays.
The successful applicant must be capable of working well within a team, as well as alone and be self-motivated. Whilst experience is critical, full training will be provided and there is the opportunity for progression.
Owing to the physical nature of the job, applicants will need to be physically fit and healthy and be fully prepared to work outside in all weathers.
Apply For This Job
To apply, send a CV and covering letter to Katherine Adams, Head Keeper via email: headkeeper@hamertonzoopark.com
Hamerton Zoo Park reserves the right to close applications early.
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