Zoo Cover Keeper

Job Description

What you'll bring to the team

Ready to step into a wild world of conservation, care and unforgettable animal moments as a Zookeeper at Chessington World of Adventures Resort?

At Chessington, our adventurers don’t just visit a zoo, they enter a living, breathing environment where every habitat is designed to inspire, educate and protect. As a Zookeeper, no two days are ever the same. You’ll take an active role in the day-to-day running of the collection, including delivery of the highest standards of animal husbandry required with species such as Capybara, Asian small-clawed otters, Binturong, Giraffe, Humboldt Penguins and a range of aquatic species found in our very own SEA LIFE Centre.

Duties will include planning, evaluating and executing environmental enrichment for the animals under your care alongside delivering first-class meet and greets and memorable experiences to our Adventurers. You will also be required to use positive reinforcement to train a wide variety of species for husbandry and presentations.

You’ll also be part of a team that creates the most stimulating environment possible – for both animals and guests. Since we’re big on conservation, education and research, you’ll have a big part to play in that too. You will also be keen to support all areas within our zoo, which will in turn benefit your own personal development. You will ensure the health and safety of yourself, colleagues and our guests always as well as develop a personal training programme in conjunction with your Head of Section.

This is a full-time role, working a flexible pattern across 5 days out of 7, including weekends and bank holidays.

Qualifications & Experience

• A degree in Animal Science, Zoology, Biology, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience of working in a zoo environment or equivalent.
• Possession of a forklift licence, tractor certification and/or firearms experience would be advantageous.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, with the stamina to stand for extended periods and effectively handle physically demanding tasks.
• Confident communicator and shows good initiative.
• Demonstrates strong attention to detail while maintaining a clear focus on broader objectives.
• Passion and excitement for your chosen field, with a keen drive to develop your career as an animal keeper.
• Team player, with a positive, can-do attitude
• Able to stay focused and in control under pressure.
• Adaptability, flexibility and willingness to swap routines at short notice to meet the needs of changing circumstances.
• Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks
• Flexible availability around park hours, including weekends and holidays

Benefits

• 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants
• 40% off LEGO online
• Merlin Magic Pass - giving you free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends every year
• Enjoy the Ride Pass – giving you and 5 others a Merlin Annual Pass (Gold Edition)
• X2 volunteer days a year
• Discounted rates at Merlin hotels all over the world
• Employee pricing up to 55% off cinema tickets

Sound like your next adventure? Apply now and be part of our incredible world.

If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at recruitment@merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Pay Range

GBP £27,000.00/Yr.