Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Animal Keeper to join our Birds team on a full time basis.

Animal Keepers are responsible for carrying out all aspects of animal care, including husbandry routines, managerial operations and environmental enrichment, and supporting veterinary intervention as required.

The successful candidate will have a background in the keeping of Birds. You will be able to work well as part of a team, have the ability to use your initiative, display an interest in and commitment to animal welfare and conservation, and must possess strong communication skills.

In return we will offer you support, training and continued professional development, not to mention a fantastic working environment! You can also expect free entry to the park and great event discounts.

If you would like to join our unique and vibrant organisation to become a part of the Marwell Family, please view the full candidate brief and complete our application form. This application form must be completed for you to be considered for this role.

Closing Date: 14 January 2021

Proposed Interview Dates: Week Commencing 18 January 2021 

 

Role Purpose and Role Dimensions:
To carry out all aspects of animal care, including husbandry routines, managerial operations and environmental enrichment, and supporting veterinary intervention as required. Improve knowledge of animal biology and management, including observations & record keeping, supporting and participating in zoological research. Support and participate in education, media and marketing initiatives to encourage public understanding of animals and promote Marwell’s charitable mission

Financial Dimensions: No financial responsibility or authority

Key Internal Contacts

  • Animal Collection Managers
  • Animal Team Leaders
  • Senior Animal keepers
  • Animal Services
  • Veterinary team
  • Scientific staff
  • Education team

The Role

Planning & evaluation

  • Prepare for & attend regular section or departmental meetings / undertake agreed actions

Animal management

  • Carry out animal husbandry routines and environmental enrichment
  • Undertake & record animal observations
  • Participate in animal management operations and veterinary intervention as required
  • Contribute to zoological research
  • Adhere to bio-security policy & procedures

Human Resources

  • Support the training & supervision of Assistant Animal Keepers
  • Undertake programme of continued professional development

Health & safety

  • Adhere to health and safety policy & procedures
  • Maintain understanding of emergency procedures – practice and enact as required

Communications, education & public awareness

  • Facilitate and participate in education, media and marketing initiatives as required
  • Engage guests informally during course of duties

Compliance & best practise

  • Good understanding in Zoo Licence inspections, and other audits as required
  • Maintain understanding of Ethical, Population Management, and Animal Welfare policies
  • Adhere to environmental policy & procedures

The Candidate

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

  • Minimum Level 3 (DMZAA) or equivalent qualification in animal management or biological sciences that demonstrates academic & practical application.
  • Significant practical experience in the husbandry and wider management of a range of species
  • Developing taxonomic specialism in Birds
  • Demonstrable knowledge of contemporary exotic animal husbandry
  • Demonstrable interest & enthusiasm for animal conservation, management & welfare
  • Developing understanding of relevant legislation
  • Full driving licence valid for the U.K.

Attributes

  • Aptitude for combining academic & practical aspects of the role
  • Strong communication skills
  • IT skills and proficiency in use of software (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and animal record systems)
  • Flexible attitude to working hours
  • An understanding of the values and behaviour expected within this role
  • An understanding of how this role supports the delivery of our charitable outputs