CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

Line Chef

Job reference:001584

Salary:£12,698.40 per annum

Closing date:20/02/2026

Department:Food & Beverage

Location:Chester

Employment type:Permanent

Hours Per Week:20

Job Description

Line Chef

How would you like to work in one of our stunning Heritage venues? Including The Oakfield, an award-winning British pub-restaurant which won the Travellers’ Choice Award in 2024, ranking it in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide. Or The Square, our new, grandeur, award-winning events venue. If this sounds like it might tickle your taste buds, apply now and join our fantastic team.

Chester Zoo is a conservation zoo on a bold mission to prevent extinction. We are UK’s most popular zoo and as well as winning lots of awards, we welcome 2 million visitors a year through our gates.
We focus on delivering memorable experiences for all our visitors and a key focus for this is our hospitality venues, which are so much more than you’d expect.
We now have an exciting opportunity supporting the Sous Chef in our gastro pub ‘The Oakfield’.
With our ambitious plans for this year, there couldn’t be a more exciting time to join us. As our new venue gets closer to opening, you’ll have the opportunity to develop as our team grows and make your mark from day one.

All of our kitchens are led by our sustainable values. We work hard to source high quality, local and seasonal produce, are making progress towards zero waste kitchens by 2030. We also partner with our suppliers to ensure only ethically sourced palm oil enters our kitchens.

Our venues, all held within our 128 acre site of stunning gardens, will jointly operate a turnover of £12.5 million. As a not for profit, everything we make is ploughed into conservation both here in the UK and around the world. Your role has a huge part to play in delivering our mission.

The Role

Food & Beverage at the zoo includes, The Oakfield, Chester Zoo's award winning Gastro-pub venue and our new event venue ‘The Square’ as well as three other restaurants, cafes, and coffee houses, You will support the Chef de Partie in making sure the department is driving a fresh, quality ingredients culture whilst meeting our sustainable values and helping achieve continual revenue growth.

You will:

• Support in the day-to-day preparation and production of food for your kitchen
• Act as a buddy to Seasonal team members to ensure effective and efficient work practice
• Support the Chef de Partie in helping to produce food to the highest standards which ensures Chester Zoo maintains its world class reputation
• Adhere to health and hygiene policies, standard operating procedures and safe working practices including food safety systems and associated legislation (for example HACCP)

The Package

You’ll be working a variety of shifts, across our core zoo opening hours as well as early mornings and evenings for events as required. You’ll work 20 hours per week, 5 days out of 7, and will be paid overtime for all agreed additional hours above this.

• Permanent 20 hour contract
• £12,698.40 per annum based on 20 hours
• 33 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 days
• Excellent training and career progression opportunities, including support with qualifications where necessary
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Cycle to work scheme
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%

Our Requirements

• Able to demonstrate understanding of food types and production methods
• A ‘can do’ and flexible attitude to work
• Good communication skills
• Quick learner, with ambition to progress

Although not essential, the following would be desirable

• Previous chef experience is desirable; however, we will also consider people who are currently studying a catering hospitality qualification and/or have a passion for the hospitality industry
• Level 2 Food Safety qualification
• Customer service experience

More about working for us

We celebrate diversity and we’re building a workplace where everyone belongs, and everyone is included. We place utmost trust in all our employees and give you the encouragement to do great work. We expect a can-do attitude, but we don’t expect you to do it alone - you’ll be supported every step of the way. You’ll be given the tools you need to do your job well, and you’ll be offered further learning in areas there’s a gap. As an international conservation charity, we’re focused on continuing to make a difference in conservation.
We are Chester Zoo, and together we are creating a future where nature can survive and thrive.

We reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date if we have received a high level of applications. We recommend that if you do wish to be considered that you submit your application as promptly as possible as shortlisting and interviews may be taking place whilst the advert is live.

CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

Food & Beverage Assistant Manager

Job reference:001607

Salary:£31,929 per annum

Closing date:26/02/2026

Department:Food & Beverage

Location:Chester

Employment type:Permanent

Hours Per Week:40

Job Description

The Oakfield Assistant Manager

We have an exciting opportunity to join our growing team at The Oakfield, set within the UK's number 1 zoo. As part of the Food and Beverage team, the Assistant Manager will be responsible for the daily management of the front-of-house team at this unique pub, ensuring an outstanding experience for every guest. This is a fantastic chance to work in a truly special environment, where you’ll help deliver exceptional food and drink service in the heart of Chester Zoo.

The Role

As an Assistant Manager at The Oakfield, our award-winning gastro pub set in the heart of Chester Zoo, you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day running of the front of house operations. You’ll work closely with our Head Chef and wider food and beverage team to deliver exceptional service, maintain high standards, and ensure our guests have a memorable experience every time they visit

You will:
• Oversee the daily management of The Oakfield pub, ensuring smooth service and an exceptional guest experience at all times
• Lead, motivate, and develop the front of house team, supporting recruitment, training, and performance management to uphold service excellence
• Manage all food and beverage systems including EPOS, stock control, cash handling, and health and safety compliance
• Utilise sales and performance data to inform decisions, set clear goals for the team, and react quickly to trading trends to drive results
• Maximise revenue and profitability by monitoring payroll and spend, encouraging upselling, and minimising waste and shrinkage
• Ensure all team members adhere to policies and procedures, including food safety standards, health and safety legislation, and licensing laws
• Support the delivery of occasional events held within The Oakfield, ensuring they are integrated seamlessly with regular pub operations

This is a hands-on leadership role ideal for someone with previous experience in a management role in hospitality, who thrives in a high-quality, guest-focused environment.

The Package

You’ll be working a variety of shifts, including days and evenings for events such as weddings and corporate functions. Contract hours are 40 hours per week, 5 days out of 7 on a rota basis including weekends and bank holidays.

• Permanent contract
• £31,929 per annum based on 40 hours per week
• 33 days annual leave
• Annual holiday buy/sell scheme
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Cycle to work scheme
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%

Our Requirements

• Experience operating in a high-volume business, at a management level.
• Exceptional guest service skills within a guest focused environment
• Experienced people manager who is able to lead and inspire a team in a range of disciplines
• Awareness of current food & beverage and event trends with the ability to benchmark against competitors and able to present ideas for improvement to introduce best practice ahead of the game
• In depth knowledge and experience of Health & Hygiene Safety legislation processes
• Good practical knowledge of budgets, forecasting and setting targets
• Excellent written and verbal communication with the ability to liaise to people at all levels
• Computer literate with working knowledge of Excel and other Microsoft products
• Knowledge of balancing guest requirements and service capabilities with the need to return a profit
• Knowledge of effective performance monitoring systems

Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Experience of food & beverage in a leisure or visitor attraction environment
• Experience of delivering events.
• Hold a relevant vocational qualification in food & beverage

Please be aware we reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date if we have received a high level of applications. We would recommend that if you do wish to be considered that you complete the application as promptly as possible as shortlisting and interviews may be taking place whilst the advert is live.

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…

We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of over 600 permanent and 500 temporary team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

Our working environment could not be more different from a typical office – where else can you see critically endangered orangutans from your office window, or stroll among rare giraffes and tigers on your lunch break?

CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

Security Support Officer

Job reference:001600

Salary:£12.21

Closing date:27/02/2026

Department:Security

Location:Chester

Employment type:Temporary

Hours Per Week:8 min

Job Description

This is a working environment like no other! Imagine patrolling amidst rare giraffes and tigers, surrounded by breathtaking gardens on a sprawling 128-acre estate. As part of our dedicated and professional Security team, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our staff, visitors, contractors, living collection, and assets – day and night.

The Role: Security Support Officer

Your responsibilities will include:

• Ensuring Safety and Security: Maintaining the highest standards of security across the zoo, delivering proactive prevention measures and emergency responses in line with established protocols.
• Guest Engagement: Welcoming guests at the main entrance, conducting customer searches, patrolling the grounds, supervising access to event spaces, and handling concierge duties – all while providing exceptional customer service.
• Maximising Security Systems: Demonstrating proficiency in the use of security systems to ensure their operational effectiveness.
• Risk Management: Supporting the Security team by identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities through regular reviews and mitigation measures.

The Package:

• Temporary contract until 31 December 2026.
• Minimum of 8 hours per week, with additional hours available during peak periods. Shifts will vary between 7am and 2am.
• Competitive Pay: £12.21 per hour.
• Complimentary staff pass, allowing you to visit the zoo during your time off, along with free tickets for friends and family.
• Discounts on gym memberships, cinema tickets, dining, high street shops, and more via Perks.
• Plus more!

Essential requirements:

• Previous experience in a similar role.
• Outstanding customer service skills and a professional approach.
• Confident communicator, able to stay calm under pressure.
• A full UK driving licence.
• A current SIA Door Supervisor licence.
• Desirable qualifications:
• Experience working in high-footfall environments such as visitor attractions, stadiums, airports, or shopping centres.
• A First Aid at Work qualification.

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity… Apply now!

Shortlisting and interviews may begin while the advert is live, so we encourage early applications. Please note, the advert may close earlier than the specified date if a suitable candidate is found or if we receive a high volume of applications.

CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

Arboriculturist/ Horticulturist - Projects

Job reference:001599

Salary:£29,260 per annum

Closing date:27/02/2026

Department:Projects

Location:Chester

Employment type:Permanent

Hours Per Week:40

Job Description

Arboriculturist / Horticulturist

We’re looking for a passionate and skilled Arboriculturist to join our dedicated Collections team and help bring Chester Zoo’s mission to life. In this hands-on role, you’ll play a vital part in caring for our remarkable living landscapes — from gardens and glasshouses to tropical houses, car parks and our nature reserve — ensuring they thrive for both plants and people.

Using an evidence-based approach, you’ll apply modern arboricultural and plant management practices, with a strong understanding of the conservation importance of the taxa in your care. You’ll help maintain and develop our diverse sites to the highest standards, creating safe, inspiring and welcoming environments for our visitors, while meeting the complex needs of a world-class plant collection.

A key part of the role will be managing the Zoo’s extensive tree stock and ensuring it meets essential health and safety standards — all while contributing to the wider conservation work of a charity that’s working to protect wildlife and nature for the future.

The Role: 

Our Climbing/ Project team will use tree skills and garden knowledge to support the zoo mission, contributing to the efficient and effective delivery of the Strategic Development Plan. They will:

• Undertake tree works including Felling, climbing, pollarding.

• Produce a high-quality finish using chainsaws, chippers, Mewps, excavators, tractors garden machinery and hand tools,

• Maintain and develop Chester Zoo’s gardens, car parks, nature reserve Halo land estate and tropical houses to the required standard, with an emphasis on meeting both the plants and visitors’ needs in display areas.

The Package:

• Hours of work are 40 hours per week, worked 10 days out of 14, including weekends and Bank holidays as rostered.

• Full time contract.

• Salary £29,260 per annum

• 33 days annual leave per annum

• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family

• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme

• Discounted gym membership

• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks

• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%

Our Requirements: 

• NPTC Units 201 (previously CS30) Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-cutting, NPTC Unit 202 (CS31) Felling of Small Trees, NPTC Unit 203 (CS38) Tree climbing Aerial rescue operations, NPTC Unit 204 (CS39) Use of Chainsaw from Rope and Harness.

• Training to minimum NVQ Level 2 Horticulture (or equivalent experience)

• At least two years practical horticultural experience to enable the post-holder to be able to think for themselves in a wide range of different scenarios.

• Ability to identify, recognise and treat pests and diseases by either biological or chemical means. PA1 and PA6 chemical spraying certificate

• Qualified (holding certificates of competence) to operate a wide range of horticultural machinery and equipment efficiently and safely to include several of the following: tractor, chainsaw, cherry picker, dumper, digger, ride on mowers, road sweeper, forklift with telescopic arm, tree climbing, tree work from height, welding and abrasive wheel, training in the use of CAT scanning equipment to detect underground services.

• Full UK Driving licence

• Excellent communication skills

• A good understanding of working on sites, being able to read plans and drawings.

The closing date for applications is 27th February 2026.

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.

We are Chester Zoo, and for over 90 years we’ve been a leading conservation and education charity, and an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction.
We’re also a team of passionate, talented, enthusiastic and expert people, doing everything we can to prevent extinction, from caring for animals to discovering new conservation ideas, and giving our visitors an inspirational day out.
We work hard because we love animals, we care about nature, we love Chester Zoo and despite all the recent challenges thrown at us, we still want to be the best zoo in the world! If you think you can help us to achieve that, then we’d love to hear from you.

CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

First Aid Officer

Job reference:001614

Salary:£12.74 per hour

Closing date:09/03/2026

Department:First Aid

Location:Not specified

Employment type:Temporary

Hours Per Week:8 min

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a First Aid Officer to join our busy Operations team, providing first aid to visitors, staff, and contractors across our large and busy site. Every year we welcome up to 2 million visitors and we have a 128-acre site, you will regularly walk many miles each day around the zoo in all weather conditions and will carry emergency equipment with you at all times. 

You will: 

• Deliver a range of leading first aid treatment to staff, visitors and contractors, liaising with our Security team and external medical specialists as required

• Maintain the effectiveness and compliance of the zoo’s first aid and lifesaving equipment through the regular inspection and refurbishment of all first aid equipment

• Gather and record information and evidence post incident ensuring that appropriate logging takes place whilst achieving compliance with company and GDPR standards

• Ensure ongoing compliance and high levels of safety are maintained by undertaking safety inspections on all zoo play areas in line with ROSPA guidance; reporting any issues, defects or deficiencies to the appropriate teams and taking any appropriate actions  .

The Package 

• A minimum of 8 hours per week is required, with hours of work between 8am and 10pm with flexibility to work additional hours to support operational demands.

• Temporary fixed term contract, March – December 2026.

• £12.74 per hour

• 33 days annual leave (per annum and pro-rata based on actual hours worked)

• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family

• Employee assistance programme

• Discounted gym membership

• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks 

Our Requirements  

• Experience in delivering first aid and good all round first aid knowledge

• A minimum of a First Aid at Work qualification; enhanced training could be given for the successful candidate

• Full driving license

• Excellent customer care skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Ability to keep calm and make decisions in a pressured situation

• Ability to prioritise, plan and organise day-to-day tasks to ensure efficient running of the First Aid service

• Flexibility in hours of work to support the operation

Desirable Requirements  

• Basic awareness of Health & Safety and experience of working within a large customer focused business would also be desirable

• FREC 3 qualification

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

Well, where do we start? Here goes…  
 
We’re a huge team of conservationists, scientists, educators, animal welfare experts, marketeers, visitor experience professionals, environmental policy influencers; the list goes on. Each and every one of us is on a mission to make Chester Zoo the best in the world, and our planet a better place.   

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of over 600 permanent and 500 temporary team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development. We have ambitious goals, and we want you to be with us for the long term on our exciting journey.

Our working environment could not be more different from a typical office – where else can you see critically endangered orangutans from your office window, or stroll among rare giraffes and tigers on your lunch break?

We recommend that if you do wish to be considered that you submit your application as promptly as possible as shortlisting and interviews may be taking place whilst the advert is live. We reserve the right to close our vacancies earlier than the listed date.

CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

Experiences Host

Job reference:001606

Salary:£10,158.72

Closing date:25/02/2026

Department:Experiences

Location:Chester

Employment type:Fixed Term

Hours Per Week:16

Job Description

We're delighted to share that we're currently advertising for 3 Fixed Term Experiences Hosts within our Experiences Team. This enthusiastic team adds a dynamic touch to our zoo, elevating the visitor experience with our passion and innovative approach. We provide unforgettable moments that leave lasting memories. This is your chance to be a part of something truly special at the UK’s best zoo!

The Experiences department is a vital revenue generator for Chester Zoo, making a significant financial contribution to conservation by delivering experiences for over 5,000 guests each year. We are responsible for organising, hosting and overseeing our Animal Experiences programme working closely with our dedicated animal keepers to deliver experiences with giraffes, penguins, fruit bats and chameleons to name but a few. We run early morning bus tours, delivering themed guided tours which offer exclusive VIP access to the zoo before the gates open each day. We also work closely with our Food and Beverage team to manage and host our themed breakfast events, including our newest venture- Snow Leopard Breakfast.

With plans to launch more experiences this year, we are a team that is always evolving and have big ambitions mapped out for the future. We are looking for 3 highly motivated, confident and positive people to join our growing team.

As an Experiences Host, you will.

• Work as part of a highly dynamic, fast paced and supportive team.

• Play an integral role hosting guests on animal experiences providing support to our expert keepers as they deliver an exciting selection of experiences with different species across multiple taxa.

• Be trained to drive our electric buses in order to take on the important role of bus driver for our tours.

• Work alongside our Zoo Rangers and Food and Beverage Team to host our breakfast events, sharing in the excitement of each and every participant.

• Take pride in representing Chester Zoo to the highest standards of professionalism, going above and beyond to provide the best customer satisfaction possible.

• Have very good organisation and time management skills, being able to prioritise effectively and work independently when required.

• Be a confident communicator, able to converse with guests in person, over the phone, via email and even speaking on a microphone to address large crowds.

• Be expected to support the smooth running of the department with additional tasks such as laundry, cleaning, stock management, sales, bookings and till transactions.

The Package

• 3 x Fixed Term contracts starting 30th March running until Sunday 27th September 2026.

• Rate of pay of £10,158.72 per annum.

• Working on a rota basis with a minimum of 16 hours per week, up to a potential of 30 hours per week depending on the needs of the business during peak times. Weekends are typically our busiest days.

• A set rota will be given indicating the expectation to work 4 days out of 7 with 2 of those days being Saturday and Sunday.

• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off, plus complimentary tickets for your friends and family.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme

• Discounted gym membership

• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks

• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions up to 9%  

Our Requirements are that you will:

• Have a background and proven experience in either customer service, education or animal management (with a relevant qualification in one of the above desirable).

• Be passionate about excellent customer service and confident in a sales situation.

• Be aged 21 or over with a full clean UK driving license in order to be trained to drive the tour buses (21+ required for insurance purposes).

• Be strong communicators- this role includes speaking to visitors face to face, on the telephone and using a microphone to address large crowds. You will also be required to manage and lead large groups of up to 40 guests around the zoo, so strong public speaking and crowd management skills are a must.

• Be willing to be trained to have regular involvement in early morning bus tours- either in a Tour Guide capacity or as a Bus Driver (preferably both).

• Be a self-motivated, proactive team player with high personal and work standards.

• Have a flexible and positive “can do” attitude.

• Have a strong understanding of computer systems including Microsoft Word and Excel and be confident at responding professionally to emails.

• Apply a flexible approach to working at a large visitor attraction. Flexibility in this role is key so the successful candidates must be available for up to 30 hours a week on a 4 out of 7 working rota, including weekends, bank holidays and the occasional evening shift.

Although not essential, the following would be desirable: 

• Experience gained in a Tour Guide capacity would be advantageous.

• Hands on experience working with animals (zoo industry background desirable).

• It would be advantageous if customer service experience had been gained within either a sales or call centre style environment.

• Demonstratable confidence driving large vehicles.

• Experience gained from working at another large visitor attraction would be advantageous.

• A good knowledge of Chester Zoo’s animal collection and conservation work.

• Experience of EPOS, booking management systems and cash handling.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 25th February 2026.

Our interview process adopts a group Assessment Centre style, featuring collaborative group elements. If selected for an interview, you will be required to deliver a pre-prepared 2-minute presentation to the group. The date for our 2026 Assessment centre is Sunday 8th March.

CAREERS AT CHESTER ZOO

Social Media Executive

Job reference:001595

Salary:30,000

Closing date:08/03/2026

Department:PR

Location:Chester

Employment type:Permanent

Hours Per Week:40

Job Description

Social Media Executive

Chester Zoo
Full-time | On-site

£30,000 per annum

Help us to tell our stories, grow our reach, and inspire a global movement for wildlife.

With more than two million followers across the world, Chester Zoo’s social media channels are one of the most powerful ways we connect people with our mission to prevent extinction. Every week, our content reaches millions, showcasing unforgettable wildlife moments, world-leading conservation science, and the extraordinary work happening across our zoo and around the world.

We’re now looking for a creative Social Media Executive to take on one of the most exciting social media roles in the UK. Working with some of the best content around, you’ll help elevate our online presence even further. As part of our PR & Media Team, you’ll look after the day-to-day running of all our social media channels, including The Reserve at Chester Zoo, the UK’s newest conservation hotel, and be tasked with growing our online communities, driving engagement, support and action. If you’re a storyteller with a deep understanding of how to take content and make it cut through and connect, then we want to hear from you.
About you

You’re a creative social media professional who knows how to make content work for a variety of different channels and audiences. You have an eye for detail, can react fast to emerging trends and breaking news, and craft stories that resonate with huge global audiences.

You bring: 

• Expert knowledge of major social platforms and proven experience of generating high engagement among large digital communities.

• Excellent visual storytelling skills and a track record in delivering content across multiple platforms in a fast-paced environment.

• A strong grasp of impactful organic social media use for business.

• A strategic, insight-driven mindset and good analytical skills.

• Ability to prioritise and plan workload effectively while building strong relationships across multiple departments.

• Ability to turn complex information into accessible, engaging stories.

• An understanding of how social media content drives revenue.

Required experience & skills 

• Professional experience of managing and growing large online communities and delivering highly engaging content for a large brand or organisation.

• Strong video editing and content creation skills using industry-standard tools.

• Photography/videography skills (preferred).

• A relevant degree in media, communications or equivalent professional experience.

What you’ll do:

Content strategy & planning 

• Build a bold, insight-driven social media content calendar across channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn and YouTube.
 
• Bring creative, innovative ideas - particularly for short-form content including Reels, TikTok and Shorts.

• Help manage an annual content plan around key events, campaigns, commercial priorities and global conservation work.

• Apply a strong understanding of monetising content across Meta, TikTok, and YouTube to support revenue generation.

• Utilise tools within the platforms to help promote events, fundraising and commercial initiatives.

Copywriting & brand voice 

• Shape and refine a compelling, distinctive and consistent brand voice for Chester Zoo’s social channels.

• Write clear, platform-specific copy and captions that translate into accessible, clear, emotive storytelling.

Community management 

• Be the eyes, ears and voice of the zoo across all major platforms.

• Build a positive, inclusive community and respond to comments with personality.

• Stay ahead of emerging trends, formats, platform developments and audience behaviours. 

Campaign integration & collaboration 

• Partner with other teams across the zoo - such as marketing, science, conservation, education, commercial and fundraising - to deliver integrated content that helps achieve the zoo’s various aims and objectives.

• Coordinate with the zoo’s digital marketing team, and the agencies they work with, to ensure organic and paid social strategies work hand in hand.

• Support and amplify influencer collaborations.

Reporting & insights 

• Analyse content performance and turn insights into clear, actionable recommendations.

• Report on reach, engagement, sentiment, conversions and storytelling impact. 

Content creation 

• Support the zoo’s Content Creator, freelancers, and others in creative roles in delivering inspiring, high-quality content (video, stories, photography, graphics) optimised for each platform.

• Gather content that lifts the lid on the everyday magic of the zoo and our global conservation projects.

• Provide creative direction and hands-on content support around opportunities to gather social-first content for events and key zoo moments.

• Use tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom, CapCut, Edits, Canva or equivalents to produce polished short-form content.

Working at Chester Zoo

• 40 hours per week, typically 8:30am–5:00pm, Monday to Friday.

• Occasional weekend or evening work (time in lieu provided).

• Hybrid working available, but the role is primarily on-site - right at the heart of the zoo.

• Be part of a mission-driven organisation making a real impact for wildlife worldwide.

Ready to inspire millions?

If you’re a social media professional who knows the world of social media inside out, a brilliant storyteller and a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help bring the world of Chester Zoo to life.

To apply, please send us a copy of your CV and a covering letter detailing why you’d be perfect for the role and tell us one thing you’d do to further elevate our channels.

The deadline for applications is 23:59, Sunday 8 March. Please be aware we may close sooner if we find the right candidate.