Senior Animal Keeper

Location: Blackpool Zoo

Salary: £28,386

Hours: Full-time, including weekends and public holidays

Contract type: Permanent

Application Deadline: 22nd September 2025

About Us:

Blackpool Zoo is one of the UK’s most established medium-sized zoos and is operated by Parques Reunidos, one of Europe’s largest leisure and attraction operators, which specialises in the tourism/leisure sector. With 50 years of experience, they currently operate more than 30 leisure centres in Europe and Australia.

Blackpool Zoo is dedicated to the conservation and welfare of animal species from around the world. We pride ourselves on offering a dynamic, engaging, and educational experience for all our visitors. We are currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Animal Keeper to join our passionate team.

Role Overview:

As a Senior Animal Keeper at Blackpool Zoo, you will play a crucial role in the care, management, and enrichment of our diverse animal collection. You will support a team of keepers, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, health, and husbandry. This position requires a hands-on approach and a deep commitment to the animals under our care.

The successful applicant will be a proven team player with a good knowledge of the zoological industry and an understanding of the requirements needed to maintain and continuously improve the husbandry and welfare of the animal species under their care. You will be required to work with all species on your section in a safe and secure manner and will have excellent training skills using positive reinforcement methods.

As a Senior Animal Keeper, you may be expected to oversee and supervise other staff members and, on occasion, manage the section in the absence of the Section Manager. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to progress in their career.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee the daily care and management of a specific section of the zoo, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animal health.
Develop and implement enrichment programmes to promote natural behaviours and enhance animal well-being.
Supervise and mentor seasonal keepers, trainee keepers and animal keepers, providing training and guidance to ensure best practices in animal care.
Collaborate with veterinary staff to monitor and address the health needs of the animals.
Maintain accurate records of animal care, health, and behaviour.
Engage with the public through educational talks, demonstrations, and interactive experiences.

Requirements:

Minimum of 5 years' keeping experience with some category 1 species (elephants, big cats or apes desirable).
Extensive knowledge of animal husbandry, welfare, and enrichment practices.
Strong leadership and team management skills with a focus on mentoring and motivation.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
You should possess the Diploma in The Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or an equivalent qualification.
A full UK driving licence.

How to apply:

Please send a CV and detailed covering letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the role to our Personnel Manager by emailing recruitment@blackpoolzoo.org.uk.

Please note, we will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews throughout the advertising period for this role. The role may therefore be filled prior to the closing date. We would encourage you to submit your application form as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

If you have not heard from us within 14 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion. We are only able to provide individual feedback to those candidates who are successful through to the interview stage.

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