Leading improvements for all hoof stock species via excellent husbandry techniques, dietary improvements and keeper training. Researching, developing and implementing training programmes to improve relevant species-specific welfare issues and daily routines. Assisting with veterinary procedures, reacting professionally and efficiently to minimize any stress, risks or hazards to species and staff. Implementing and constructing enclosure adjustments to improve welfare issues, aid ease of animal training, enhance breeding programmes and improve keeper safety. Improving safe working protocols and best working practices to enhance time management during daily routines. Mentoring keepers to aid in their professional development.

I required a job that still allowed my main focus for me to still be there for my children if needed. Becoming a self employed builder allowed me to do this as well as learning many new skills for myself which are highlighted below.Involvement in building & construction projects from initiation to completion. Experience of specialist equipment such as heavy machinery, measuring and power tools. Awareness of health and safety procedures and guidelines on construction sites.

Responsibility, part-time, for all daily husbandry tasks, health checks and water treatment, via pool plant management, for the oceanariums colony of Humboldt penguins.Involved in daily feeding, water temperature checks and husbandry of all other stock/exhibits including blacktip reef sharks, African dwarf crocodiles and stingray

I took the decision to become a stay at home parent to help raise and care for my two young children and to support my wife’s successful return to her career. During this time I have kept myself up to date on any new information and changes in legislation in the animal industry via webinars, research and zoological groups.

Overall supervision of the livestock department (in the absence of the livestock manager and assistant manager) which included the supervision of several keepers and over 100 different species of exotic birds and animals. Responsibility for the main section of livestock involving daily husbandry, health checks, breeding programs and veterinary procedures. Educational talks and guides to groups of students from ages ranging from 5-18 years of age. Aviary design, hand rearing, and updating animal records. Supervising and training keepers and supporting work experience students. Publicity and promotions. Participating in television, radio and newspaper interviews.Maintaining and operating filtration systems, carrying out water tests and administrating chemicals when needed. Twice daily educational talks to the public concerning Humboldt penguin, ensuring presentations were engaging, fun and informative.

Responsibility for the daily husbandry for a varied collection of exotic and endangered animals which included semi-aquatic mammals, primates, ungulates and carnivores. Veterinary assistance,· education, behavior enrichment and public liaising. Animal movement, recording and hand rearing.