The Path to Becoming a Keeper.

maisielkirkland
Mar 2, 2021
3 min read

Updated: Mar 3, 2021

A talk given by Margaret Warren, Education manager at the Welsh Mountain Zoo based in Colwyn bay. This talk explores and outlines career options within the Zoo sector and advice to those who are thinking of applying; CV requirements and where you can find current vacancies.

Image: Welsh Mountain Zoo logo from website.

‘What is the role of the modern Zoo?’

As an initial opening question this gave insight into the thoughts of the participating audience; with answers ranging from: Education and conservation, Breeding programmes and visitor attraction. All key elements of the mechanisms of the modern zoo.

Is Being a Keeper my only Option?

The talk began by exploring all the possible career sectors within a zoo and how they vary in approach; few actually involve animal interaction (Keeper, animal trainer and veterinary roles), others focus on education and fundraising and the general running of the zoo - with marketing, research and customer care/business being key areas. For those interested in the prospect of these career areas, there are many sources of career info and vacancy sites that can be utilised, such as:

Usually, employers advertising keeper roles generally look for animal care/behaviour/management (science) qualifications. However, most of the time those with a ‘relevant degree’, in conservation, ecology and zoology, are still considered. On the other hand, work experience is a key factor in applying for such roles; this is where the focus of the employer will be and will represent your true experience. Any aspect of animal care is relevant; whether you have experience working within a cattery, kennel, farm or wildlife rescue, the more experience you have the better.

Alternatively, other CV ‘boosts’ will further your skill base and create interesting talking points within an interview; consider any relevant personal interests you may have or additional skills.

Do you have a tractor/chainsaw license? Ever gained experience working at height or rather, working with children?

As a final thought, keeping up to date with current news and research relating to conservation projects and sustainability movements is recommended when undergoing interviews within the animal care/conservation sector. Demonstrating any knowledge you may have on, for example, palm oil production and the repercussions of it's high demand on local species/ecosystems will show employers your interest and passion in current global issues relating to the natural world.

Image: The habitats of endangered species such as the Orangutan are destroyed in palm oil production

After Thoughts...

Overall, I felt that this talk gave a broader, more general overview of the requirements expected of an applicant within this field. The content was interesting and reassuring, with less pressure on the specifics of your degree and more on the time you have spent investing in volunteering/work experience which, I agree, is more important when looking into potential zoo based careers.

When looking forward to my potential career path, I feel that this talk has reassured me that I do not need to jump into looking for a graduate position imminently. Alternatively, I feel it will be beneficial to take a year or two to explore and enjoy different, interesting volunteer roles to gain more work experience; ultimately enhancing my knowledge by learning new skills and therefore, making me a more desirable candidate for roles I apply for in the future.