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Zoo inspectors required: Help to keep high standards in British zoos

The government and devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales are committed to maintaining the highest standards in British zoos. Here is your chance to help. We are looking for enthusiastic and knowledgeable individuals to act as zoo inspectors.

Zoo inspectors are appointed under the Zoo Licensing Act 1981. They are responsible (as part of a team) for inspecting zoos and making recommendations to local authorities on the granting of licences. The Act provides for inspectors to consider and advise on the well-being of the animals, the health and safety of the visiting public and those living nearby.

The government has two lists:

  • List 1, veterinary surgeons
  • List 2, those who can advise on the management of zoos

Inspectors are paid an hourly rate for their time.     

Skills and qualifications required

All candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to the highest standards in zoos and considerable and ongoing practical experience.

Those applying for consideration for List 1 must also be a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (or community rights-entitled veterinary surgeons currently on the list of Visiting European Veterinary Surgeons maintained by the RCVS), and demonstrate appropriate up to date experience in the zoo/wild/exotic animal field and evidence of continued professional development in zoo and exotic animal issues.

Although formal qualifications are not required for List 2, candidates will be expected to have considerable up to date experience in the management of zoos in Britain at a senior level (preferably curator or above). We are particularly interested to supplement both List 1 and List 2 with those who have specialist knowledge of either invertebrates or aquaria. 

Contact for further information

If you are interested in applying for a post as a zoo inspector please contact:

Jamie Harwood
APHA
Floor 3, Horizon House
Deanery Road
Bristol, BS1 5AH
Tel: 0117 372 3700
Email: zooandcircusmailbox@ahvla.gsi.gov.uk

The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 3 November 2017.

Published: 3 October 2017