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Lead Keeper – Lower Vertebrates & Invertebrates

Reference: JAN20171230
Expiry date: 2017-01-21 23:59:00.000
Location: Chester
Salary: £21,866.96 Per Annum
Benefits: Pension, Healthcare Cash Plan

Lead Keeper – Lower Vertebrates & Invertebrates Team

Permanent - Full Time

We are Chester Zoo, and for over 80 years we’ve been a leading conservation and education charity, and an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction.

We’re also a team of passionate, talented, enthusiastic and expert people, doing everything we can to keep the zoo going, from feeding the animals to discovering new conservation ideas, and giving our 1.8 million visitors an inspirational day out. We work hard because we love animals, we care about nature, we love Chester Zoo and we want to be the best zoo in the world!

We currently have a vacancy for a Lead Keeper within our Lower Vertebrates & Invertebrates team.

The Role:

The successful candidate will supervise students, working alongside keepers to undertake the daily animal care duties, focusing on welfare, hygiene and life support. They will ensure that all exhibits and support facilities are of an excellent standard for both animals and visitors alike, and provide outstanding customer care.

The successful applicant will have:

  • A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent practical experience
  • Experience of working in a zoo or aquarium with a diverse reptile, amphibian and invertebrate collection with experience of captive propagation of multiple genera of Amphibia
  • A thorough knowledge of herpetological husbandry, exhibition, diet, reproduction and records with excellent exhibit theming skills, both natural and artificial
  • Outstanding observational skills, attention to detail and a proven track record of delivering the highest possible standards of husbandry and exhibitry
  • A thorough understanding of the contribution ex situ populations of animals can make to education, science and conservation
  • The ability to manage and prioritise a diverse workload and have excellent problem solving skills

In addition, the following would also be advantageous:

  • Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages including ZIMS in order to maintain accurate records
  • Experience in conducting and publishing scientific research and of working in field conservation programmes
  • Experience of tropical plant culture
  • Experience with captive breeding Caudates

Salary for the role is £21,866.96 per annum for a 40 hour week on a rota basis including some weekends and bank holidays. In addition we offer a range of amazing benefits which can be found at http://www.chesterzoo.org/footer/careers/working-at-chester-zoo.

To apply for this position, please provide your current CV and covering letter stating why you believe you should be considered for our Lead Keeper role.

Closing date for applications is Saturday 21st January 2017.