Ponderosa Zoo
West Yorkshire
Closing date for applications is: 28th Feb 2025
Salary: To be discussed - dependent on experience
Ponderosa Zoo, originally named Ponderosa Rural Therapeutic Centre, was created by Maureen Cook in 1991. The centre aimed to 'bridge the gap' between disabled and able-bodied people by using the care of animals as a form of therapy. Whilst previously, the centre was home to a variety of domestic animals including pigs, goats and cattle, we now look after over 100 animals from lemurs and reindeers to tortoises and snakes. Although Ponderosa Zoo has grown over the years, our 'Bridge the Gap' vision remains one of our key priorities by ensuring the zoo is accessible to all. Our team of hard-working individuals are passionate about promoting animal welfare, as well as educating visitors on conservation efforts and threats many species now face in the wild. In 2021, we took another step in our journey by becoming full BIAZA members.
We have a very exciting opportunity to join our team as Deputy Zoo Manager. The role will consist of working on section, as well as completing managerial duties when covering the Zoo Manager. It will be a split of 3 days on section and 2 days in the office. We are looking for a candidate who has a keen interest in conservation and education as this will take up the majority of the role when working in the office.
The successful candidate will be expected to work 5 days out of 7 which includes weekends and bank holidays. Working hours vary during the year between summer and winter. Summer hours are 42.5 hours per week and winter hours at 37.5 hours per week. Holiday entitlement is 28 days a year.
A successful candidate will have a minimum of a Level 3 qualification in an animal-related subject and at least 1 year of paid experience in a zoological collection. The position is ideal for someone who is looking to further develop their career into a senior role whilst also working directly with the animals 3 days a week.
Main Responsibilities:
* To ensure that the zoo runs smoothly in the Zoo Manager's absence
* To help improve conservation and education plans at Ponderosa Zoo when in the office 2 days a week
* To ensure high standards of animal welfare when working on section 3 days a week
* To work alongside the Zoo Manager with future zoo plans
The closing date for applications is the 28th February 2025 and interviews will be conducted soon after, at the beginning of March 2025.
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