British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Weekend Volunteer Keepers
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Hertfordshire Zoo
UK Closing date for applications is: 31st Aug 2026
Contact: Barbara Turner (barbara.turner@hertfordshirezoo.com)
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Volunteer
Contract type: Part-time
Salary: Voluntary Position
Weekend Volunteer Keepers Wanted at Hertfordshire Zoo
Do you love animals? Are you happy working outdoors in all kinds of weather and don't mind getting your hands dirty? Do you have a passion for wildlife, conservation and helping to care for a wide variety of species? If so, we may have the perfect volunteer opportunity for you.
We are currently seeking enthusiastic Weekend Volunteer Keepers to support our Animal Team in caring for the zoo and the 800+ animals that call it home. Previous zoo experience is not required, but you must be reliable, hardworking, physically fit, willing to learn and have a passion for wildlife.
Volunteer Keeper Tasks
- Assisting with enclosure cleaning and maintenance.
- Preparing animal feeds and supporting feeding routines.
- Helping with enrichment preparation and provision.
- General housekeeping within animal areas and staff spaces.
- Supporting with walk-through exhibits.
- Maintaining high standards of hygiene, health and safety, and site security.
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Why Volunteer at HZ?
- Gain valuable hands-on experience working within a zoo environment.
- Learn from experienced keepers and zoo professionals.
- Develop practical animal care and husbandry skills.
- Join a friendly and passionate team of like-minded people.
- Contribute to conservation and animal welfare.
What Are We Looking For?
- A genuine passion for animals and conservation.
- Physically fit individuals who are comfortable with manual, outdoor work.
- People who are happy working in all weather conditions.
- Reliable and committed volunteers who can attend regularly.
- Positive team players who are willing to help wherever needed.
- Individuals who aren't afraid of hard work, mucking in and getting dirty.
- Someone who is comfortable talking to visitors.
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Requirements
To apply for this job:
- Applicants must be over 18 (or 16 and enrolled on an animal-related course), able to commit to at least one weekend day per week, and able to travel independently to the zoo.
- We provide a full induction and training, so we are looking for volunteers interested in a long-term opportunity.
- Two references will also be required.
Before applying, please ensure you are happy with the busy, physical and hands-on nature of the role. There will be times when much of your day is spent cleaning and maintaining enclosures, and direct animal contact should not be expected.
To express your interest, or to find out more, please contact Barbara Turner, Volunteer Coordinator, at: barbara.turner@hertfordshirezoo.com
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