Zookeeper

In this role you could:

• prepare food and feed animals
•  clean out enclosures and change bedding
•  check for signs of distress or disease
•  work with a vet to care for sick animals
•  check enclosures for signs of wear or damage
•  monitor conditions like temperature and humidity
•  keep daily animal welfare records
•  supervise trainee keepers and animal care workers
•  run education workshops and give talks to visitors

• the ability to work well with others
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• customer service skills
• knowledge of biology
• to be flexible and open to change
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

In larger zoos, wildlife parks or aquariums, you could progress from keeper to team leader or head keeper.

You might need to relocate to another part of the country to work your way up into higher positions, as competition for senior jobs can be tough.

With experience and a degree, you could become a curator. You could also move into education or conservation research.