Zookeeper – Maternity Cover (Paddock Section) (AHWRC)

Zookeeper – Maternity Cover (Paddock Section) Animal Health and Welfare Research Centre (AHWRC)

• 💰Salary: Up to £25,611 per annum (dependent upon experience and qualifications)
• 🕒Working Pattern: Full-time (37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year) fixed – term. Start date April 2026.
• 📍Location: Sparsholt Campus (Winchester)
• 📅Closing Date: 30th November 2025

We are seeking maternity cover for our paddock section beginning in April 2026. The AHWRC is a leading practical teaching facility that holds a zoo licence and is BIAZA accredited.

The post holder will work under the direction of the AHWRC Head of zoo to help ensure the husbandry and care of the species housed on the paddock section of the AHWRC are of the highest standard, and to enhance delivery of practical husbandry training to groups of students.

The post holder will:

• Be responsible for the day-to-day husbandry of a range of domestic hoof stock including zebu, alpaca and goats. There are plans to increase and diversify the species housed on the section so a desire to learn and implement new husbandry and care techniques is essential.

• Support and provide cover on other sections of the AHWRC as and when necessary.

• Instill correct best practice in students and provide and engaging and interactive learner experience.

Candidates should be educated to at least Level 3 in a relevant vocational subject and be able to demonstrate significant practical experience and expertise with a range of taxa, in particular ungulates.

A positive and flexible approach to a varied workload, real enthusiasm for the animals you work with, and an affinity for working with and engaging young learners are required. Some educational or supervisory experience would be advantageous. The practical skills to maintain and improve enclosures are also sought. The role entails weekend and Bank Holiday working on a rota basis.

Due to the remote location of this position, the ability to drive is desirable.

Interview date: Approximately 1 week post interview closing date

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received.

College Benefits

• Eligibility to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (a defined benefit pension scheme)

• Death Benefit grant of 3 x salary if in the pension scheme

• Free on-site parking

• Occupational Sick Pay Scheme

• Occupational Maternity Pay Scheme

• Flexible Working arrangements

• Access to an employee assistance scheme

• Free Library membership

• On-site gym at the Sparsholt campus

• Gym classes at the Sparsholt campus

• Facility to purchase Sparsholt produce including: plants, fruit & vegetables, fish and game.

• Access to discounted hair treatments at the Andover campus

• Ability to access a range of CPD events and support with undertaking professional qualifications

• Various food outlets and eateries offering good value food and drink at competitive prices

The AMC is Zoo-Licensed and BIAZA accredited, with exciting plans for major new developments.