Overview

Colchester Zoo is home to over 200 species in 60 acres of parkland and lakes. The Zoo’s mission is to provide a first class experience for all its visitors at the same time as furthering understanding and respect for animals through education and research. Through visitors’ funds Colchester Zoo undertakes breeding programmes for endangered species and supports numerous in-situ conservation projects via the Zoo’s charitable arm, Action for the Wild and it’s very own UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve in South Africa.

The Role:

An exciting position has arisen for a Team Leader to join our team and contribute to our mission at Colchester Zoo in a full-time role working with a range of Primates including Great Apes.

The successful applicant will be expected to manage a team of staff and oversee the the care of a range of species, input ideas for the continual progression and development of animal husbandry and enclosure design and carry out talks and presentations to the public as well as ensure high standards of animal care and breeding management. As a Team leader they will report directly to the Living Collections Management team and be responsible for all aspects of managing the section including staff rotas, disciplinary procedures, staff appraisals, section protocols, safe working protocols and practices, risk assessments, animal husbandry and diets, breeding programmes, animal training and enrichment programmes, moving the section forward and planning future developments.

Requirements:

We are looking for an individual who is highly motivated and hardworking, with a minimum of 10 years’ experience working in a zoological collection. Excellent customer service, communication and animal husbandry skills are essential along with experience of supervising staff and managing risk in a zoo environment. Experience working with Great Apes would be preferable.

Applicants should have the Diploma in the Management of Zoo Animals and Aquaria or an equivalent qualification and have a full valid driving licence.

This is a permanent position with a start date as soon as is possible and Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience.

How to apply:

Please send your completed application form which can be found here and your CV and covering letter for the attention of Mrs Liz Butcher, Living Collections Manager – vacancies@colchesterzoo.org or by post to – Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, Essex CO3 0SL

Closing Date:

Friday 30th July 2021