Head Keeper (Tropical World) (Maternity Leave)
Job title: Head Keeper (Maternity Cover)
Hours: 37 hours per week over 7 days on a rota system
Contract: Temporary (12 months)
An exciting position has arisen for a Head Animal Keeper at The Arnold and Marjorie Ziff Tropical World in Roundhay Park, working with a diverse range of aquatics, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, small mammals, and birds.
Tropical World is one of Leeds' most popular family attractions, with over 300,000 visitors annually. The post-holder will collaborate closely with on-site teams, our zoo vet, and both internal and external contractors to deliver a high-quality visitor experience.
The successful candidate will be a flexible, motivated individual capable of cooperatively leading the animal team to uphold the highest standards of animal husbandry, conservation, education, and public engagement.
As one of two Head Keepers, you will be responsible for line-managing staff including permanent keepers, seasonal staff, apprentices, and volunteers. Your duties will include managing training programs, keeping stock inventories, and contributing to collection development, small projects, and new initiatives.
The ideal candidate will:
* Manage and motivate a diverse animal keeping team.
* Be highly motivated and diligent.
* Lead on animal training, husbandry guidelines, and visitor engagement.
* Participate in public presentations, keeper talks, and social media engagement, demonstrating excellent communication skills.
* Be willing to work weekends on a rota and occasionally in the evenings.
Requirements:
* A Diploma in the Management of Zoo Animals and Aquaria or equivalent qualification.
* At least 5 years' experience in a zoo environment, with a minimum of 2 years in a supervisory role.
* Exceptional animal husbandry skills and high standards of animal care.
* A passion for animal welfare, conservation, education, and research.
* Practical experience working with various species.
* Strong customer service and communication skills.
* Good understanding of health and safety in a zoological setting.
* Organized management of animal records and reporting systems, including knowledge of systems like ZIMs.
* A full, valid driving license.
We offer:
* A competitive salary and annual leave, including statutory holidays.
* Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with employer contributions.
* Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where possible.
* Clear career progression and professional development opportunities.
* Staff benefits supporting wellbeing and financial wellbeing.
Application process:
Please complete the online application form, ensuring all sections are filled accurately. For guidance, refer to our instructions. For informal inquiries about the role, contact Abigail Hardwick (Animal Officer) at Abigail.Hardwick@leeds.gov.uk.
Leeds City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. We value diversity and aim for a workforce reflecting Leeds' communities. We are recognized in Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index 2024 and are an Age-friendly, Mindful, and Disability Confident employer.
All new appointments are subject to a six-month probation period. Candidates must have the right to work in the UK, evidenced through appropriate documentation or visas. Sponsorship options are available for eligible candidates, typically requiring a salary of at least £38,700 per year.
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