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Head of Animal Operations at Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park and Council Member for ABWAK
Sector: Education
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Reports To: Head Ranger/ Head of Animal Operations
Location: Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park
Contract Type: Permanent, subject to a six-month probationary period
Hours: 45 hours per week, including weekends and bank holidays as required
As a Qualified Ranger, you are responsible for maintaining high standards of animal husbandry, ensuring the safety and welfare of animals and visitors, and contributing to the overall conservation aims of the park. The role requires professionalism, teamwork, and the ability to engage with the public through talks, experiences, and educational activities. Additionally, the Ranger will be responsible for undertaking basic maintenance tasks to ensure the enclosures and surrounding areas remain safe and fit for purpose, as well as maintaining accurate animal records. We are primarily looking for someone with a broad range of interest and knowledge; you will be working with small mammals, primates, reptiles, and hoof stock.
Key Responsibilities:
* Maintain high standards of animal husbandry, ensuring all animals receive appropriate care, enrichment, and nutrition.
* Follow and enforce safe working procedures in and around animal enclosures to protect both staff and visitors.
* Observe and monitor animal behaviour and health, promptly reporting any concerns to the senior team.
* Ensure that detailed and accurate animal records are maintained, including daily reports, medical history, feeding logs, and behavioural observations.
* Follow all health and safety guidelines and safe working practices, highlighting any potential risks to management immediately.
* Undertake basic maintenance tasks such as repairing fences, installing drinkers, putting up signs, and building enrichment to maintain a safe environment for both animals and visitors.
* Ensure animal enclosures, public walkways, and behind-the-scenes areas remain clean, tidy, and well-maintained.
Public Engagement & Education:
* Conduct keeper talks, close encounters, and birthday parties to educate and engage the public.
* Represent the park positively, ensuring high standards of customer service and interaction with visitors.
* Promote the park’s conservation aims at every suitable opportunity.
* Communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and the public, fostering a positive working environment.
* Provide guidance to volunteers, seasonal staff, and interns, ensuring correct husbandry techniques, safety, and animal welfare standards are met.
* Contribute to team tasks and projects while fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
* Supervise and motivate work experience and volunteers, encouraging professional development and teamwork.
Working Conditions:
* Work is structured over a seven-day week to meet business needs, including weekends and bank holidays.
* Evening shifts or emergency call-ins may be required (Paid).
* A 20-minute unpaid break is provided daily.
* The role is physically demanding, requiring the ability to carry heavy loads (e.g., hay bales, sacks), walk long distances, and work in all weather conditions.
* A working uniform, including protective clothing, will be issued and must be worn at all times during working hours.
* Employees must be punctual, reliable, honest, and maintain a professional appearance and demeanour.
Key Attributes:
Technical & Professional Requirements:
* An animal-related qualification.
* A minimum of two years’ experience working within a zoological collection.
* Ability to work independently and take on additional responsibilities as required.
* Basic maintenance skills, such as repairing fencing, gates, and enclosure structures, are desirable.
* Experience in maintaining detailed records of animal care and welfare is essential.
* Knowledge of ZIMS (Zoological Information Management System) is desirable.
* Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve issues and respond to public inquiries effectively.
* A commitment to delivering high-quality customer service.
Personal Skills:
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* A positive approach to work and collaboration with colleagues.
* Ability to motivate and encourage staff, volunteers, and work experience participants.
* Strong interpersonal skills to maintain good working relationships within the department and across the organization.
How to Apply:
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and suitability for the role to Sophie Ryder by 19/02/2025.
Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.
Why Join Us?
* Holiday Entitlement – 28 days per year (January to December).
* Active Social Community – KeeperFest and social gatherings.
* Professional Development – Encouragement and support to attend ABWAK and BIAZA workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge.
* Supportive Work Environment – Be part of a collaborative and passionate team.
* Exclusive Perks – Enjoy free Wildlife Park admission tickets for family and friends.
* Staff Discounts – Receive discounts at our on-site restaurants and shops.
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