Zoo Jobs UK – Apply Now for Animal Care, Zookeeper & Conservation Roles

If you have a passion for working with animals, a commitment to conservation, or a desire to educate the public, zoos careers in the UK present some of the most thrilling and rewarding opportunities available. Zoos, safari parks, and aquariums in the UK are reputable establishments recognized for their commitment to animal welfare, educating visitors, protecting habitats, and conducting wildlife research. Prominent zoo employers are located in important areas such as London, Kent, Lancashire, Cornwall, Edinburgh, and the Midlands, providing a variety of opportunities near numerous regions.

When searching for zoo jobs, you will come across positions such as zookeeper, animal care assistant, education officer, ranger, or curator. These positions are available to individuals who have recently completed their education, volunteers seeking to gain experience, or experienced professionals in animal husbandry or ecological research. Many zoos foster a culture that emphasizes on-site training, conservation ethics, teamwork, and provides numerous roles that allow for hands-on work, enabling you to witness the impact of your efforts. Caring for wildlife contributes to a healthier planet.

Job Details:

Zoo Jobs 2025 Latest Jobs Openings

A brief overview of Zoo:

Zoos and wildlife parks in the UK serve to display animals for public enjoyment while also focusing on the preservation of endangered species, visitor education, and scientific research. Numerous organizations, such as the British & Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), establish rigorous standards for welfare, conservation, and ethics. These institutions vary from small local animal centers to prominent global zoos such as the Zoological Society of London, Marwell Wildlife, Chester Zoo, among others.

These facilities provide services such as animal welfare and care, conservation breeding programs, public education and outreach, scientific research, and habitat management. Their strengths are in integrating conservation with education, establishing safe and enriching environments for animals, and serving as centers for public engagement with nature, raising awareness of environmental issues, and inspiring wildlife protection. These facilities serve multiple functions, including animal care, enclosure maintenance, visitor education, and involvement in conservation initiatives.

Qualifications and Abilities:

In order to fulfill their objectives, zoos require personnel who are not only enthusiastic but also responsible and adequately prepared. The skills, qualifications, and adaptability of each team member are essential for the successful management of animal care, visitor safety, welfare, and conservation.

• A significant amount of pertinent education, typically GCSEs (or equivalent), is required, particularly in the areas of English, mathematics, and a science.
• Academic or vocational qualifications in animal care, zoology, wildlife conservation, or a related field (e.g., a Level 2/3 Diploma in Animal Management or related courses).
• Volunteering, internships, work placements, or vacation positions may constitute prior animal-related experience.
• Physical fitness and a willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, as well as to perform physically demanding tasks such as cleaning, lifting, and enclosure maintenance.
• Proficient in animal welfare and observation: the capacity to identify indicators of distress or illness and subsequently report or respond accordingly.
• Many zoo positions necessitate work on weekends, bank holidays, early mornings, or late shifts, necessitating flexible availability.
• Communication skills—including the ability to work collaboratively, interact with veterinarians, and frequently engage in conversations with the public; rudimentary IT or animal welfare documentation; and record-keeping.

Good Salary and Benefits:

Zoos in the UK generally offer modest starting salaries with room to grow; pay varies significantly depending on the role, the zoo, experience level, and whether there are additional responsibilities (e.g. education, overnight shifts, management).

Typical salary / pay ranges:

• Animal Care Assistant/Junior Keeper/Trainee Keeper ~ £14,000-£20,000/year, or part-time/seasonal hourly equivalent.
• Full-time zookeepers with substantial experience earn between £20,000 and £25,000 per year.
• Senior Keepers, Section Heads, and Specialists earn between £25,000 and £35,000+, with increased pay according on responsibilities and species.
• Ranger, Curator, and Education Officer salaries range from £25,000 to £40,000+, depending on experience and zoo.

Benefits usually include:

• On-the-job training and professional growth (zoo diplomas, animal welfare or conservation training).
• Zoo and connected park discounts or free admittance are available to some employees.
• Permanent employee pension.
• Holiday pay (typically includes bank holidays; part-time/seasonal workforce vary).
• Free or subsidised staff housing (particularly in rural or safari areas) for specified roles.
• Work in conservation, research, and community education is satisfying beyond compensation.

What Is the Process for Applying for Zoo Jobs?

Here’s how you can apply for zoo jobs in the UK in a clear, helpful way:

• Identify zoos or wildlife parks near you or those you’re willing to move to; check their websites (or BIAZA / zoo job boards) for current vacancies.
• Find job titles of interest (e.g. keeper, assistant keeper, education officer, ranger) and read the full job descriptions & person specifications to see required qualifications & experience.
• Prepare your CV, highlighting any animal-related experience (volunteering, internships, work with rescue centres etc.), relevant qualifications, and soft skills (communication, teamwork).
• Apply via the zoo’s own careers portal or through their job listing site; include any required documents (qualifications, references).
• If required, attend interviews — this may include discussing animal welfare topics, scenario questions, or showing understanding of conservation ethics.
• In some cases, you may need to complete additional checks (DBS/ background checks), obtain zoo passes, or demonstrate ability to work physically with animals.
• Be prepared for seasonal or part-time contracts initially; stay visible, reliable, and committed — this helps for moving into more permanent positions.
• Once employed, engage in continuous training, and seek opportunities for specialisation (e.g. in exotic species, education, veterinary support, or conservation projects).

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Available Job Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a degree to work at a zoo?
Not always. Entry-level roles often require GCSEs or equivalent and demonstrable animal work experience. Degrees help for specialised or research roles, but hands-on experience and relevant qualifications (diploma/animal management) are very valuable.

2. What is the career path like in zoo work?
Many start as assistants or junior keepers, then with experience and good performance move to keeper roles, senior keeper or section head. Some later transition into management, education, research or specialised roles (veterinary, conservation etc.)

3. Are zoo jobs full-time or seasonal?
It depends. Many keepers and animal care roles are full-time, but a lot of roles (especially at smaller zoos or visitor attractions) are seasonal, part-time, or have hours that vary depending on visitor seasons. Weekend and holiday work is common.

4. How much can I expect to earn as a zoo keeper?
Starting salaries are often in the £14,000-£20,000 range. With more experience, responsibility, or senior roles, pay can climb into the £25,000-£35,000+ region. Specialised roles or large zoos may pay more.

5. What skills matter most in zoo roles?
A mix of physical stamina, flexibility (weather, hours, working outdoors), strong animal husbandry skills, observation & welfare skills, communication (for working with public or visitors), ability to work well as part of a team, and a real passion for wildlife and conservation.