We are looking for a skilled and dedicated Veterinary Officer to join our Wildlife Health Services team, delivering exceptional clinical care across both ZSL London and Whipsnade Conservation Zoos. The Veterinary Officer will support the delivery of clinical veterinary services by the Wildlife Health Services (WHS) team across both ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Conservation Zoos.
Reporting to the Veterinary Manager (VM), the Veterinary Officer (VO) will support the health and welfare of all animals in ZSL collections, predominantly as a clinician working at both zoos. The role will also represent ZSL as a centre of excellence in the veterinary care of zoo and wild animals.
Key responsibilities
* Deliver high-standard veterinary care (preventive, diagnostic, treatment, disease surveillance, and post‑mortems) at ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos.
* Work closely with curatorial, animal management, and wider teams to support animal health, welfare, and ZSL’s strategic goals.
* Lead, contribute to, and publish clinical research in peer‑reviewed journals and other academic platforms to enhance ZSL’s profile.
* Assist with teaching and mentoring students (tracking, MSc, ECZM ZHM residents, etc.) through ZSL, the RVC, and partner institutions to build global wildlife health expertise.
* Produce timely clinical, pathological, and welfare reports to enable informed decision‑making and continuous care improvement.
About You
* Membership in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
* Proven experience in veterinary care of zoo and wild animals across a range of species.
* Experience using remote drug‑delivery firearms and systems.
* Knowledge of relevant legislation related to zoo licensing, animal health, health & safety, firearms, and veterinary medicines.
* Familiarity with managing competing priorities and delegating effectively.
* Working knowledge and skills of IT systems including MS Office packages, ZIMS, etc.
* A full driving license is required for this role.
This role requires standard pre‑employment checks, including confirmation of your right to work in the UK. A DBS check is also required for this position, and you must be eligible for possession of a firearms licence.
ZSL recognises that conservation is one of the least diverse sectors, and we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify as part of underrepresented communities. We are committed to building a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage.
Benefits
* Purpose driven work – join an organisation where every role contributes to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
* Pension scheme – generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
* Flexible working – we discuss flexible working requirements to suit you.
* Holidays – 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays (increasing with milestone anniversaries).
* Access to ZSL’s staff Equality Networks – Race & Culture, Team Pride, Disability, and Menopause.
* Wellbeing – blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
* Life assurance – eligible employees enrolled from their first day.
* Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30% discount in online and retail shops.
* Cycle2Work – cycle to work scheme enables leasing a bicycle.
* Season ticket loan – interest‑free loan for eligible London‑based employees to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work.
* Family friendly policies – enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption packages.
#J-18808-Ljbffr