Do you want to become a Zoo Keeper? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
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Zoo keepers look after the welfare of animals in zoos, wildlife or safari parks. They carry out regular daily tasks such as caring for the animals, cleaning and feeding them, and making sure their environment is looked after properly. They also make sure the animals get the correct diet, and keep healthcare records, usually on computer.
Other tasks include answering visitors questions, giving special presentations, and taking part in breeding programmes and new projects.
They normally work 37 to 40 hours a week, usually on a shift basis. There may be overtime if an animal is ill or injured, or for special opening times or events. Most work is outdoors in all weathers, although some animals are cared for indoors.
Salaries range from £10,000 for a new zoo keeper, to £21,000 or more for senior or head zoo keepers.
A zoo keeper should:
There are around 1,500 jobs for zoo keepers in the UK, and there are usually more applicants than jobs. Although there are no set entry requirements, some employers prefer applicants with GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) and/or previous experience of working with animals.
Animal care qualifications range from a City & Guilds Advanced Certificate, to a BSc (Hons) in Animal Management. There are specific qualifications in zoo animal and zoo resource management.
Degree courses usually last three years, Foundation degree courses two years, and other certificate and diploma courses one to two years. Courses include practical work and assessment, and sometimes a work placement. NVQs/SVQs are available in Animal Care Level 2 and Zoo Animal Management Level 3. Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.
Promotion opportunities are quite limited. In larger zoos and parks there may be opportunities to become a senior or head keeper, or to move to a research or management post. Some zoo keepers move into other areas of animal work or work for animal charities.
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