Aquatics Section Head

Primary Responsibilities

To lead and motivate a team of dedicated animal rangers to ensure exemplary husbandry and welfare standards for all animals within the section, which include Californian Sea Lions, Maned Wolves, Red Pandas, Lowland Tapirs and Bush Dog's and provision of an outstanding guest experience.

Implementation of health and safety standards and operational procedures for the section. To deliver our conservation education mission through public engagement.

Key Work Objectives

• Ensure exemplary standards of husbandry, health and welfare standards within your section of responsibility.

• With support from the Section Manager, responsible for the management and supervision, training and development of all rangers within the section.

• Responsible for maintaining a motivating, supportive and professional culture and working environment within the team.

• Implement and monitor compliance with health and safety standards through effective risk assessments and standard operating procedures.

• Responsible for the delivery of innovative animal demonstrations, talks and presentations to meet the park’s objectives for interpretation and informal conservation education.

• Ensure all animal records within your areas of responsibility are accurately maintained.

• Complete checks on animal health, equipment and enclosures before opening and closing and periodically throughout the day.

• Monitor all animals within your areas of responsibility for signs of illness, injury or distress. Co-ordinate with the Section Manager to organise veterinary interventions. Supervise the administration of medical treatments as necessary.

• Maintain and advance animal welfare including the design and implementation of enrichment and training programmes for animals on the section.

• Implement hygiene, biosecurity and disease prevention protocols to minimise the risk of infectious and zoonotic diseases.

• Act as the taxonomic expert for species under your care providing specialist advice to the animal department.

• Ensure an exemplary experience for all guests.

• Represent YWP at external events if required.

Qualifications

Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or a degree level qualification in an animal or conservation subject area