Living Collection Assistant- Animal Trainer/Presenter

Imagine spending your day curating magical moments which inspire others to fall in love with nature; being part of a team that is ambitious, that is determined, and that is excited about what they’re achieving! WWT are on a mission to restore wetlands and unlock their power; it’s a multifaceted operation and we can’t do it alone!  

So, where do you come in?

We are looking for someone dedicated and passionate to join our animal training team. This is a hands-on role, responsible for the training and keeping of the birds in our Living Wetland Theatre demonstrations. You would be joining the team at an exciting time of development as we look to maximise our impact and inspire more people to engage with the wetlands around us. You will be presenting a range of engaging and enthusiastic talks, working in a unique environment with some amazing wetland species, not limited to pelicans, and magpie geese!

Restoration, inspiration and thriving sustainably are core principles at WWT. You’ll be at the heart of helping us meet our ambitions for the future and connecting our visitors with the wonders of wetlands.

This is a full-time position working 37.5 hours per week, 5 days in 7 to include weekends and bank holidays. Part time hours of at least 25 hours per week will be considered for the right candidate.

Our ideal candidate will have:

• A qualification in a zoology-related subject(FdSc/BSc, preferably animal behaviour–based) and/or relevant practical animal experience, with a full current driving license.

• A working understanding of modern, welfare-focused animal trainingtechniques and experience implementing behavioural training plans for public engagement and animal management purposes.

• A strong commitment to animal health and welfare, including maintaining and improving exhibits, carrying out daily welfare checks and keeping accurate records in line with zoo licensing requirements.

• The ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team, communicating clearly with colleagues, managers and the wider WWT teams.

• Confidence to work productively with our volunteers, supporting daily operations and fostering an inclusive and constructive team dynamic.

• A creative, flexible and organisedapproach, with the ability to originate ideas to help us continue to progress and thrive.

• Experience and confidence in public speaking, be able to deliver engaging and inspiring presentationsto audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

• Excellent people skills, with the ability to engage positively with visitors, schools, groups and professionals, and support wider centre promotions.

• A positivecan-do attitude, and the willingness to continuouslylearn, grow and adapt.

• Enthusiasm, energyand a genuinepassionfor birds, conservation and sharing WWT’s mission to restore wetlands and inspire others.

Does this sound like a job you can get behind? See the full job description to find out more. 

We’re WWT, and we’re on a mission to restore the super-powered ecosystems we call wetlands. There’s never been a more important moment for our work, and we’ve got some phenomenal people on the case.

Whether they’re taking a new visitor under their wing, or conducting ground-breaking research further afield, our team are second to none. And there’s nothing we love more than watching them soar.

Whatever you do here, you’ll be helping to restore wetlands and unlock their power. So, the only question left is, what role will you play?

• Wake up every day knowing your work is helping to restore wetlands, and our world
• Be surrounded and inspired by our team of passionate, dedicated people
• 33 days annual leave (which goes up to 38 days after 5 years of service) – this includes bank holidays and you have flexibility to take those days whenever you want
• Free entry to all our wetland centres, including your family
• Free car parking and secure bike storage areas
• Colleague discount on shopping and memberships
• Cycle to work scheme
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life Assurance of three times your salary, for peace of mind for your loved ones
• Independent personal, workplace and financial advice from our Employee Assistance Programme

WWT is an equal opportunities employer and all applications will be considered solely on merit.

Registered Charity Number England & Wales, no 1030884 and Scotland, no SC039410