Sustainable Restaurant Association jobs in England

We are Chester Zoo

We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to over 32,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. As the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.

We now have an exciting new role for an outstanding Invertebrate Keeper with a focus on native species conservation. You’ll be part of the wider Ectotherms department.

The role:

Support the development and operation of a native species conservation hub, contributing to the establishment of facilities, husbandry protocols and population management strategies that support the long-term conservation of native invertebrate species

Undertake the day-to-day husbandry and management of native invertebrate collections, ensuring high standards of animal welfare through routine management, enclosure maintenance, environmental monitoring and behavioural observations

Contribute to conservation breeding and population management programmes for priority native species, supporting the maintenance of sustainable assurance populations and the production of individuals for research and potential reintroduction initiatives

Monitor animal health, welfare and breeding success, maintaining accurate records of husbandry activities, life history events, population demographics and breeding outcomes to inform evidence-based management decisions

Assist with field-based conservation and monitoring projects, where required, supporting species surveys, population assessments, habitat management activities and the collection of data that contributes to wider conservation objectives

Develop and refine best-practice husbandry techniques for native invertebrate species, sharing knowledge with colleagues, students, volunteers and external conservation partners to support the advancement of invertebrate conservation efforts

Participate in internal meetings providing support and information as required in support of the Society’s mission. Ensure effective communication within the team.

Participate on request in relevant external groups and Associations in UK and overseas, representing the society’s views on Animal husbandry and conservation, with the aim to meet the society’s mission

The ideal candidate:

A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent practical experience
Experience of animal husbandry, specifically with invertebrates
Good understanding and working knowledge of conservation breeding
Outstanding observational skills, attention to detail and be committed to ensuring the highest possible standards of animal health and welfare are met
An understanding of the contribution that ex-situ populations can make to conservation, education and applied research
Able to organise and adapt in a dynamic environment
Have a strong work ethic and ability to effectively prioritise tasks
Be an enthusiastic, dynamic and motivated team player
Will demonstrate excellent communication skills.
Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages
Have a good understanding of risk assessments and safe operating procedures

This role may involve representing Chester Zoo and the Ectotherm team for media interviews and internal and external meetings workshops and conferences. Therefore, excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.

The Package

Hours of work are 40 hours per week, worked 10 days out of 14, including weekends and Bank Holidays as rostered
Fixed Term, 12 months.
Salary of £27,500 per annum
Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends
Free bus travel available on the X1 from Chester and Ellesmere Port train stations
Staff discount in our restaurants and retail outlets
Subsidised staff canteen
Online Discount/Cashback scheme
Free entry to affiliated zoo’s and collections through BIAZA including Blue Planet Aquarium

Shortlisting and interviews may begin while the advert is live, so we encourage early applications. Please note, the advert may close earlier than the specified date if a suitable candidate is found or if we receive a high volume of applications.

The closing date for applications is 22/11/26.