Title: Trainee Keeper
Central Auckland, NZ, 1010
- Permanent Full-time Position
- Salary: $57,824 per annum based on skillset and experience.
He angitūtanga: The opportunity
Auckland is a global city with stunning scenery, wonderful beaches, and sub-tropical islands. It is also a city with one of the most progressive zoos in the world. Auckland Zoo’s mission is to ‘Bring people together to build a future for wildlife’. Through science, learning & training, and strengthening our relationship with Te Ao Māori, we strive for excellence in animal care & welfare, conserve wildlife in the wild and nurture a lifelong connection with nature to enhance the well-being of our communities.
We have an opportunity for an entry level zookeeper to join the carnivore section. The role involves a science-based approach to animal husbandry and welfare, helping to provide exceptional visitor experiences, and a commitment to the conservation of wildlife and wild places. The successful candidate will understand the ultimate purpose of a modern zoo and the role of the zoo animals in delivering positive outcomes for communities and conservation. They will promote a science-based approach to animal care and help support the development and implementation of activities and objectives within the Animal Care & Conservation department and Auckland Zoo’s strategic commitments.
Note: this position will be required to work weekends and public holidays.
To review the full position description, please click here: Trainee Keeper
He kōrero mōu: About you
The successful candidate will have:
- One to two years’ experience as a zookeeper in a modern zoo.
- High standards of animal welfare and husbandry.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and confidently.
- A demonstrated track record of innovative husbandry including operant conditioning, and a sound understanding of the Five Domains of Animal Welfare Model.
- A degree in a relevant field (biological/conservation sciences) and/or Certificate in Zookeeping (minimum) or equivalent qualification(s), and/or demonstrable relevant professional achievements which illustrate the application of scientific principles.
- An understanding of and commitment to the broad and growing role of a good modern zoo in conservation, science, and community wellbeing.
- Knowledge of environmental issues in New Zealand.
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer.
There is also an ever-growing range of discounts and partnership benefits, for a snapshot of these please click here: Benefits
We are a fun and enthusiastic team, who thrive in this challenging and rewarding area and who work in innovative areas on an international level.
Tono mo te mahi/To Apply
- Please provide a bespoke cover letter (max 1 page) and concise CV (max. 3 pages)
- You do not need to add your roles in the non-mandatory fields if your CV is up to date.
- You must have, or be able to obtain, the right to work in NZ. If you will be applying for a visa we strongly encourage you to check your eligibility and further information via the NZ Immigration website as we are not able to provide you with immigration or visa advice. We are an accredited employer.
Applications close Sunday 6 July 2025
If you have specific questions regarding this role, please contact: Kennedy.Sua@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.