VACANCIES.

Position: Experienced Animal Keeper
Location: Hemsley Conservation Centre (HCC)
Contract: Permanent Full-time (40hrs/week)

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Purpose of the Role

Hemsley Conservation Centre (HCC) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Animal Keeper to join our small but committed team. This is a varied, hands-on role involving the care of a diverse range of species across all taxa on site. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to develop a specialism in a particular area of interest.

As an experienced keeper, you'll contribute to the daily care, enrichment, and welfare of animals, support husbandry practices, and engage in collaborative teamwork to maintain high standards across the site. This is an ideal role for a motivated individual looking to further their zoo career in a dynamic, conservation-minded and goal driven environment.

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Key Responsibilities

• Animal Husbandry: Deliver high-quality daily care, including feeding, cleaning, health monitoring, and enclosure maintenance across a variety of species.

• Training & Enrichment: Assist in the design and implementation of enrichment and positive reinforcement training to promote natural behaviours and enhance welfare.

• Enclosure & Site Maintenance: Support the upkeep, improvement, and development of enclosures and facilities to ensure animal safety and wellbeing.

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in line with regulatory and internal standards.

• Teamwork: Collaborate with other keepers and departments to ensure consistent standards of care and smooth daily operations.

• Visitor Engagement: Contribute to public education through talks, demonstrations, experiences, and informal engagement, supporting the centre’s conservation and outreach goals.

• Specialisation: Opportunity to develop expertise with a particular group or species, based on interest and organisational needs.

 

About You

• Significant experience in animal keeping, ideally with a broad range of taxa.

• Sound understanding of animal husbandry, health, welfare, and behavioural enrichment.

• Strong work ethic and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Physically fit and willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

• Professional, proactive, and confident in interacting with the public.

• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

• Relevant animal-related qualifications (e.g. DMZAA or equivalent).

• Previous experience working with Category 1 species.

• Full manual UK driving licence (Desirable).

• Experience designing and delivering enrichment or training programmes.

• Knowledge of species conservation, education, or public engagement initiatives.

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Rate of Pay

​~£25,787.52 P/A. Negotiable depending on experience.

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To Apply:

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Please complete the application form below and return to enquiries@hemsleyconservationcentre.com

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