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Zoo Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship - London

Employer
Zoological Society of London
Location
London
Salary
£16,071 (Inclusive of Weekend Enhancement)
Closing date
1 Jul 2019

Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship – HUB (Full-Time / Permanent)

Overview

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction. Through the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists and our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.

Role Profile

A new and exciting Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship within our HUB section at Whipsnade Zoo, working with Flying Birds demonstrations, Children’s Farm, Sealions and Keeper for a Day programme. The Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship steered by ZSL has been created in collaboration with the Institute for Apprenticeships, BIAZA and over 25 top UK Zoos. This Apprenticeship will drive the Zoo Keeping profession in the further development of animal experts. The Apprentice will typically spend 24 months on-programme (before the gateway and end point assessment) working towards the occupational standard, with a minimum of 20% off-the-job training.  All apprentices will spend a minimum of 12 months on-programme.  On completion of the Apprenticeship the individual can remain at ZSL as a permeant Zoo Keeper or Aquarist.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
  • Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas.
  • Assisting with record keeping via a Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), including personal relevant observations of animal behaviour, health and welfare.
  • Assisting senior keepers, and other colleagues, with veterinary, training and other relevant animal related procedures.
  • Supporting positive visitor experiences by good customer service and professional visitor engagement.
  • Delivering and monitoring enhanced animal contact situations, including walkthrough exhibits and animal encounters.
  • Preparing a portfolio to support the EPA for the apprenticeship scheme.
  • To be committed to and complete all aspects of training related to the job and apprenticeship.

Person Specification

  • Knowledge of positive reinforcement training through proven experience in the management of trained exotic animals.
  • A precise and scientific approach to husbandry is required along with the ability to follow strict protocols.
  • Good communication skills, teamwork and experience of dealing with the public are essential. 

 

Hours are an average 37.5 per week worked within an annual roster, which includes bank holidays and weekends.

 

To Apply

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button

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