Job Description

Reference:

NHS417

Division:

Community Services

Salary:

29,282.00 - 31,904.00 per annum

Contract type:

Permanent

Posted on:

07 October 2025

Interview date:

27 October 2025 - 31 October 2025

Extra payment(s):

14% weekend work allowance

Positions:

1

Category:

Community and streets

Grade:

D - E

Working hours:

37 per week

Closing date:

20 October 2025

Location:

Tilgate Park, Crawley

Location type:

Onsite

About the role

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We have an exciting opportunity for a zookeeper at Tilgate Zoo where we are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate individual to join our team.


Tilgate Park is a top tourist attraction having been inducted into the Trip Advisor Hall of Fame. The park, of which the zoo is one element, receives upwards of 750,000 visitors per year.


As part of a dynamic team caring for a collection of over 70 species (mammals, birds and ectotherms) you will be involved in all aspects of the zoo operation, from visitor experience and enclosure design, through to animal welfare and conservation.


You will be a highly motivated and knowledgeable individual who ideally holds a Diploma in Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or equivalent qualification.


As a small collection, you will be working with a range of domestic and exotic species (including farm stock, ring-tailed lemur, Andean condor, serval, Madagascan boa, naked mole rat) in supporting the highest standards of animal husbandry.


Your roles and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, all aspects of animal husbandry, enclosure and site maintenance whilst upholding the highest standards of health and safety.


You will work as part of a small team of dedicated colleagues reporting to the Senior Zookeeper and Zoo Manager.


We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible, as we may close this advert before the stated closing date if enough applications are received.

Additional information

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The post includes weekend work, though a working pattern that will be discussed at interview.


For all posts, evening, weekend, Bank Holidays and 'rest day' working may be required to cover essential services, for which you will be paid a 14% enhancement.


A full and current UK driving licence will be a requirement of the role.


Satisfactory clearance of a Basic Disclosure and Barring Check (DBS) will be a condition of your employment.

Employee benefits

We offer a generous employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone.

Our way of working

Our shared values and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match.

Safer recruitment

Crawley Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer of first choice reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all under represented groups.

How to apply

Click the Apply button to complete your application online. Please ensure that the reference details you supply are for your current or most recent employer and that any gaps in employment are covered on your application form. Please note that CVs will not be accepted without a fully completed application form.


For an informal conversation or further information regarding the role, email sam.whitbread@crawley.gov.uk, Zoo Manager or call on 07350 438397.