Job Description

To apply please copy and paste this link and fill out the application form https://wildplanettrust.ciphr-irecruit.com/applicants.

Please note only applications completed through our website will be considered.

About us

Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in southwest England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by the people who visit the zoos and the expertise and dedication of our staff.

Paignton Zoo first opened its doors as the Torbay Zoological Gardens in 1923. Over 100 years later, our site, and work, has grown considerably and we are now one of the South West's largest conservation organisations and top visitor attractions. There are over 230 species of animal that call Paignton Zoo home. As well as being a zoo, we are also an award winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species on record.

We have an exciting opportunity for a General Operative to join our Maintenance team on a permanent contract. This is a full time roles working 38.75 hours over 5 days, working hours will vary over a 7 day rota, including weekends. The salary for the position is 25,650.95 per annum.

What will this role involve?

The role will involve undertaking a variety of repairs, projects and maintenance work on our site. Mainly focusing on planned works to include fences, gutters, drains and basic decorating. You will work on tasks independently and also be supporting other members of the team as required. Other works could include constructing animal equipment such as platforms or shelters, domestic plumbing and emergency glazing. You will be required to operate machinery and power tools subject to relevant training. You will also liaise with other departments in the delivery of our corporate volunteering programme, providing safety briefing and supervision on the volunteers when on site.

What skills and experience are required?

A trade related City and Guilds/NVQ2 qualification or equivalent experience is an advantage but a strong background in building renovations or mechanical engineering work may be sufficient. You should have a wide range of skills to suit the variety of works across the sites and have experience in both reactive and planned maintenance. A basic understanding of safety systems in construction is required. You should also understand the efficient use of hand and power tools, equipment and materials on small works projects.

You will have excellent teamwork and customer service skills as well as the ability to work unsupervised.

A driving license is an essential requirement.

Other desirable skills would be: Basic plumbing repair, minor new installation experience. Plant operator licenses are an advantage but not essential.

Benefits of joining our team include:

33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays) Company sick pay - 12 weeks full pay, 12 weeks half pay Branded uniform provided (as required) Relevant internal and external training provided Free entry to our zoos for staff and immediate family Complimentary tickets Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable) Free staff parking Employee Assistance Programme Paid time off for medical appointments Enhanced family leave
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnership

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 25,650.95 per hour

Expected hours: 38.75 per week

Benefits:

Company events Discounted or free food Employee discount Enhanced maternity leave Enhanced paternity leave Free parking On-site parking Sick pay Store discount
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 06/07/2025
Reference ID: GOPP/MNT/0625