Jobs at Fota Wildlife Park

Jobs

Vacancies at Fota Wildlife Park will be posted on this page.

Vacancy for a Trainee Ranger at Fota Wildlife Park 

Fota Wildlife Park, part of the Zoological Society of Ireland, is located on 100 acres at Fota Island 10km east of Cork City and has an annual attendance of 460,000 visitors.
Fota Wildlife Park’s vision is to inspire people to understand and conserve the biodiversity of our natural world. The Park’s core values of conservation, education, research and entertainment have ensured that we are uniquely placed to foster greater public understanding of the threats to plant and animal habitats and decreasing global biodiversity. Fota Wildlife Park has made considerable investments in the past 10 years upgrading its infrastructure and developing 27 acres of additional land that focuses on Asian animals including Sumatran tiger, Indian rhino and Asiatic lion.


Job Specification – Trainee Ranger

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly motivated individual as a Trainee Ranger on a permanent contract within Fota Wildlife Park. The Trainee Ranger will work under regular supervision to a structured training schedule as part of a team supporting the Rangers to ensure that day to day animal husbandry is carried out effectively and in a timely manner using the agreed standard operating procedures.  This position will work with the Lead Rangers, Senior Rangers and Rangers, and reports to the Lead Ranger.  
Duties will include, but are not limited to, the care and feeding of exotic and domestic animals; the cleaning and maintenance of buildings, exhibits, and other animal enclosures; observation and reporting of physical and behavioural condition of the animals and participation in Fota Wildlife Park’s conservation and education programs.


Responsibilities:

  • To clean animal areas using the agreed procedures and time frames.
  • Report any animal health concerns to a more senior Ranger.
  • Assist with keeping enclosures, food preparation, and public viewing areas up to a high standard of hygiene, cleanliness, and exhibition.
  • Visually check enclosure structure daily, reporting concerns immediately.
  • Learn to assist with minor repairs and maintenance.
  • To co-operate with other staff at Fota Wildlife Park, particularly with the Registrar/Health & Safety Officer and administration, gate, shop staff and education department.
  • Be willing to participate in Education Programmes.
  • Clearly communicates with colleagues to ensure safety.
  • Ensure up-to-date knowledge and understanding relevant to the section, utilising all available resources.
  • Works with the Senior Section staff in the delivery of the operant conditioning programme. 
     
  • Works with the Senior Section staff in the development of enrichment to stimulate the animals physically and psychologically.
  • Ensure that Fota Wildlife Park’s policies and procedures are always followed and ensuring the correct adherence of Health and Safety compliant practices and where appropriate the implementation of new safe working practices with approval of senior line managers.
  • Work with Fota Wildlife Park’s Education Department to facilitate educational programs.
  • Able to work a flexible schedule, which will include some holidays, occasionally evenings and early mornings.
  • Have a good working knowledge of Microsoft software products.
  • Must be able to travel large areas of Fota Wildlife Park as needed.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Be able to work effectively in a team supporting Rangers, Senior Rangers, Lead Rangers and colleague Trainee Rangers.
  • Has some experience of caring for domestic and/or exotic animals and demonstrates a responsible and enthusiastic approach to the work.
  • Has achieved or is willing to work towards an appropriate animal related qualification (DMZAA or equivalent).
  • Possess a comprehensive understanding of Health & Safety as it applies in a Zoological setting and be proficient in the use of IT systems.
  • Be fluent in both written and spoken English.
  • Has an interest in the Wildlife Park's work and purpose.
  • Applicants must be willing to work Saturdays, Sundays, and some public holidays.


The responsibilities outlined above are not an exhaustive list and may be subject to change. Additional duties may be assigned as required to meet the evolving needs of the organisation. Fota Wildlife Park is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for team members who share that same value.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 21st February 2025

 

Please apply via email with your cv and cover letter to recruitment@fotawildlife.ie