British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Zoo Keeper - Permanent Contract
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Zoo Keeper - Permanent Contract
Paid Full-Time Zoo Keeper at Five Sisters Zoo
Location: Five Sisters Zoo, Scotland Salary: £13.25 per hour Closing Date: 20th July 2026 Contact: Veselina Alvas (veselina@fivesisterszoo.co.uk)
About the Role
We are excited to welcome a passionate Keeper to our team at Five Sisters Zoo, where you’ll engage with diverse animal sections including:
- Large Carnivores (e.g., big cats)
- Small Carnivores (e.g., canines)
- Primates (e.g., monkeys, apes)
- Birds (including exotic species)
- Farm Animals (dairy, poultry, etc.)
- Castle Zoo (historical/predisposition themes)
- Domestics (Southern Hemisphere fauna)
- Lost Kingdom Reptile House (herpetology section)
As a Keeper, you’ll uphold our commitment to exceptional animal welfare across all departments, fostering enrichment and education for both animals and visitors.
Responsibilities
The role involves:
- Animal husbandry care: Daily maintenance and health monitoring of diverse species.
- Enclosure management: Designing and implementing environmental enrichment plans.
- Visitor engagement: Front-of-house communication, talks, and presentations to large crowds.
- Outdoor duties: Work in all weather conditions (on museum grounds/indoors as required).
- Administrative tasks: Recording behavioural observations and updating section notes.
- Collaboration: Liaise with the zoo team (events, education) and assist with zoo campaigns.
- Research & training: Support student placements and relevant hole projects.
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Operational details:
- Willingness to work weekends/evenings as needed.
- Reporting to senior keepers within the team structure.
- Physically demanding role with constant wigala activity.
Requirements
Essential
- Strong observation skills with hyperattention to detail.
- Comfortable speaking:
- One-to-one with staff & visitors.
- Delivering public talks to large groups.
- Physical fitness required for outdoor work (high heel Capacity, no wall height).
- Ability to work independently and within a collaborative team.
- Excellent customer service skills to enhance visitor experience.
- Valid UK driver’s license or reliable access to public transportation.
- Prior zoo experience (relevant background or apprenticeship preferred).
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Desirsible (Not mandatory but advantageous)
- Diploma in Zoom Aquarium Management (DMZAA).
- Experience creating enrichment enrichment plans.
- Deference/relevant formal qualifications.
Benefits
| Perk | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Admission | Free entry for dependents at FSZ. |
| Discounts | 25% off all food outlets & in-park shop. |
| Continuing Professional | Access to CPD opportunities. |
| Ongoing training in animal husbandry. |
How to Apply
Templates required:
- Save your covering letter + CV as ONE DOCUMENT in Word or PDF format.
- Name the file:
Replace FULL NAME with your own name.**FULL NAME - KEEPER APPLICATION - SUMMER 2026**
Email details to: veselina@fivesisterszoo.co.uk
Note: Applications will be considered early if an ideal candidate emerges.
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