Assistant Team Manager– Birds (x2)

• Support the Team Manager and Curators in achieving departmental and team objectives including prioritising and developing conservation, research and educational initiatives in the zoo.
• Support the Team Manager in leading and developing your team, providing individual training and development opportunities and ensuring effective performance management with available resources.
• Assist the Team Manager in ensuring accurate and effective policies, procedures and SOP’s are in place, that knowledge is shared within the team and that documentation is audited.
• Maintain the highest standards of animal husbandry and welfare.
• Maintain the highest standards of exhibitory. Supporting the Team Manager in ensuring the effective upkeep of facilities, enclosures and equipment within your control.
• 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 the UK or overseas, representing the Society’s mission on animal husbandry, welfare and conservation.

The successful candidate will be able to develop and implement new ideas for improving husbandry, building strong working relationships to ensure the highest standards are met.

This role may also involve representing Chester Zoo and the Bird Department for media interviews and internal and external meetings, workshops and conferences in the UK and overseas.

The ideal candidate will have:

• An HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent practical experience
• Extensive experience in all aspects of bird husbandry and practical avicultural management in a zoological institution
• Leadership experience, experience of supervising and developing a team and be able to organise and prioritise tasks in a dynamic environment
• A strong work ethic, prioritisation process and adaptability
• Be an enthusiastic, dynamic and motivated team player
• Outstanding observational skills and excellent attention to detail and be committed to ensuring the highest possible standards of animal health and welfare are met
• A proven track record in delivering high standards of avian husbandry and exhibitory
• A thorough understanding of the contribution that ex-situ populations can make to education, science and conservation
• A good knowledge of bird training techniques
• A good understanding of risk assessments and safe working practices
• Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A full driving licence valid in the UK

Experience in Penguin water filtration systems is desirable for one of these positions

Salary is £26,516.71 per annum for a 40 hour week on a rota basis including weekends and bank holidays. In addition we offer a range of amazing benefits which can be found at http://www.chesterzoo.org/footer/careers/working-at-chester-zoo.

To apply for this position, please provide your current CV and complete the application form highlighting your skills and experience including why you should be considered for our Assistant Team Manager role to http://www.chesterzoo.org/footer/careers.

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 22nd September 2021