Twycross Zoo, a renowned conservation charity and visitor attraction in the heart of England, offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring animal enthusiasts – the Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper role. This comprehensive guide delves into the responsibilities, requirements, and benefits of this rewarding position, providing you with a detailed understanding of what it takes to become a Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper.
What is a Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper?
A Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper is a crucial member of the zoo’s animal care team, responsible for the daily management and well-being of the zoo’s diverse animal collection, with a focus on mammals. This role involves a wide range of tasks, from feeding and cleaning to monitoring the animals’ health and behavior, all while contributing to the zoo’s conservation and education efforts.
Responsibilities of a Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper
As a Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Animal Care: Providing high-quality care for the zoo’s mammal collection, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the animals’ health and well-being.
- Habitat Maintenance: Ensuring the cleanliness and proper functioning of the animals’ enclosures, including the upkeep of enrichment items and exhibit features.
- Observation and Record-keeping: Closely observing the animals’ behavior, documenting any changes or concerns, and contributing to the zoo’s comprehensive animal records.
- Visitor Engagement: Interacting with zoo visitors, answering questions, and providing educational information about the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Working closely with the zoo’s animal care team, veterinary staff, and other departments to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the zoo.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper role, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- Educational Background: A minimum of a Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject, such as Animal Management, Zoology, or a related field.
- Practical Experience: Hands-on experience working with animals, either through internships, volunteering, or previous employment in a zoo or similar setting.
- Knowledge and Skills: A strong understanding of animal behavior, husbandry, and welfare, as well as excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
- Physical Fitness: The ability to perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting, carrying, and working in various weather conditions.
- Commitment to Conservation: A genuine passion for animal welfare and a commitment to the zoo’s conservation mission.
Salary and Benefits
Twycross Zoo offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package for its Trainee Keepers:
| Role | Salary |
|---|---|
| Trainee Animal Keeper (Mammals) | £23,299.12 per annum |
| Animal Keeper (Grade One) – Mammals | £23,839 per annum |
In addition to the competitive salary, Twycross Zoo Trainee Keepers also enjoy the following benefits:
- Permanent contract
- 31 days annual leave
- Life assurance and company sick pay (for Trainee Animal Keeper)
- Access to ‘Perkbox’ and employee assistance services (for Trainee Animal Keeper)
- Star of the month award scheme
- Free entry to the zoo on days off
- Complimentary Twycross Zoo ticket allowance for friends and family
- Discounts in the zoo’s gift shop and food/beverage outlets
Career Progression and Development
The Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper role is an excellent starting point for those interested in a career in animal care and conservation. With dedication and continued professional development, Trainee Keepers can progress to higher-level positions, such as Animal Keeper (Grade One) or even Curator roles, further advancing their careers within the zoo industry.
Twycross Zoo also offers various other exciting opportunities, including roles in field conservation, conservation science, marketing, and more, allowing Trainee Keepers to explore different aspects of the zoo’s operations and find their niche.
Conclusion
The Twycross Zoo Trainee Keeper position is a unique and rewarding opportunity for animal enthusiasts who are passionate about conservation and dedicated to providing exceptional care for the zoo’s diverse mammal collection. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth, this role offers a fulfilling and enriching experience for those looking to make a difference in the world of animal welfare and conservation.