Chester Zoo jobs: Rare opportunity to become a penguin keeper at one of UK’s biggest zoos

There are several jobs up for grabs at Chester Zoo, including one working with some of the zoo’s cutest residents – penguins.

Chester Zoo, located just under an hour away from Manchester, is home to over 20,000 animals and welcomes two million visitors each year.

The zoo is looking for a zookeeper that will be responsible for the penguins and parrots, also caring for other bird species such as passerines, hornbills and pheasants.

The ideal candidate will have experience working with birds in a zoo environment, as well as a HND or degree-level qualification in zoological related science. They will also need to have avicultural knowledge and experience of bird husbandry, diet and reproduction techniques.

Other requirements include an understanding of and enthusiasm for modern zoos, the challenges they face and conservation. A full, clean and valid driving licence is also listed as essential.

The job salary is £24,632.63 per annum based on 40 hours per week, and it is a three-month fixed contract. You also get 33 annual leave days per year.

There are plenty of other perks to the job, too, including a staff pass to visit the zoo on your day off and complimentary tickets for family and friends. There is also a healthcare plan, discounted gym membership, a cycle to work scheme and employee pension contributions of up to 9%. Discounts are also available via cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks.

If working with animals is not your thing, then there are other job opportunities available in security, admissions and hospitality.

More information can be found on the Chester Zoo website.