Longleat is seeking experienced and committed Animal Keepers to join our Safari Team and help us continue our tradition of hiring engaged and productive employees.
Discover a captivating array of species at the Safari Park, from majestic giraffes and formidable rhinos to striking zebras and majestic tigers. And, of course, don't miss the iconic lions of Longleat.
As a member of our animal team, you'll report to the Lead Keeper and immerse yourself in the world of animal care. Your responsibilities will include maintaining our animal houses and enclosures to the utmost standard of excellence. Beyond the daily husbandry tasks, your role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of our park. You'll patrol various animal areas throughout the day, prioritizing the safety of both our guests and animals.
Moreover, you will be engaging with our guests, enhancing their experience with top-notch customer service. Join us in delivering unforgettable moments at the Safari Park, where every day is an adventure.
Key duties will include:
1. Carry out animal husbandry routines, environmental enrichment, animal observations and record data.
2. Report and advise on husbandry and safety matters to lead keepers and team managers.
3. Participate in educational and VIP initiatives.
4. Ensure Health and Safety standards and administration is adhered to by following risk assessments and standard operating procedures
5. Engage guests during course of duties in line with culture of exceptional customer service
About you
6. You must have a full UK driving licence to apply for this position
7. You will have proven evidence of your interest and commitment to zoo and wildlife husbandry, having gained at least 18 months experience with exotic animals or domestic livestock.
8. You will have gained at least 5 GCSE’s or equivalent.
9. You will have excellent communication skills allowing you to easily liaise with guests and colleagues across a variety of levels.
10. Due to the health and safety requirements of this role, you must be aged 18 or over to apply.
A little about us
At Longleat we offer a day out like no other, our guests are invited to step into the Thynn family home where they will find the finest example of Elizabethan Architecture. They are also immersed into the wild side, where they can visit over 120 species of animals by car, foot, train, bus, and boat.
With a core business of around 1 million guests every year, we are passionate about providing unforgettable experiences that bring family and friends together to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Our values
At Longleat, we believe in engaging and inspiring our employees, putting people first, taking accountability, continuously improving, and acting with integrity. We invite everyone who works with us to subscribe to these values, as they truly set us apart as a place to work.
Why join the Longleat team?
In this unique work environment, you will be surrounded by historic landscapes and listed buildings, all whilst listening to our lions roar and wolves howl. You will even have the opportunity to visit our adorable Koalas and cheeky meerkats on your days off.
You will receive a rate of up to £11.44 per hour, in addition to a range of attractive benefits that include;
11. 29 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays
12. Unlimited free entry to Longleat for our employees
13. Complimentary tickets to Longleat and Cheddar Gorge and Caves, 18 per annum pro rata
14. 50% off Annual passes for Friends and Family
15. Discounts on food and beverages and retail merchandise
16. 20% off VIP Experiences, 10% off Accommodation
17. Discretionary bonus scheme
18. Employee Assistant Programme
19. Employer contributory pension scheme
20. Life assurance scheme
21. Perks at work
22. Range of flexible working schemes
23. Great progression opportunities available.
24. Gain an internal endorsement for re-hire of future vacancies
Your contract
You will be on a fixed-term contract ending on the 5th of January 2025, with working hours to vary over a 7-day rota basis, including weekends, evenings and bank holidays as required. The earliest start time is 8 am, and the latest finish time is 8 pm, varying in accordance with opening times.