Animal Keeper – Exotics
- 2x Full-Time Permanent positions.
- Provide care for a range of species.
- $50,000 to $55,000 per annum.
- Weekly Tool and Footwear Allowance.
As Orana approaches its 50th year, we are reflective and determined to continue achieving our conservation goals. We are looking for team members to help us continue our mission to connect people with nature, and to educate and inspire our community towards creating a bright future for the next 50 years, and beyond.
He angitūtanga: The opportunity
Applications are open for a position as an Animal Keeper, you will provide a high standard of husbandry and daily
care to meet the welfare needs of our animal collection. You will assist in developing and participating in various training programs and enrichment activities that prioritises the health and well-being of our animals. Furthermore, the role will help inspire visitor experiences that encourage action for wildlife conservation and environmental protection.
Mō mātou: About Us
Orana is owned and operated by Orana Wildlife Trust, a registered charitable trust and not-for-profit organisation. Conservation is a core part of our mission and the key reason Orana exists. Our on-site habitat restoration and predator pest control programmes provide a connecting
wildlife corridor and safe haven for some of Canterbury’s most threatened species.
Orana Wildlife Park participates in many zoo-based breeding programmes in partnership with the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums (WAZA), the Zoo & Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA), DOC and others. We are committed to continuing our efforts towards these breeding programmes into the future.
He kōrero mōu: About you
You will need a minimum of 2 years’ proven experience with animal care in a zoo or similar setting. This position will be working with a
variety of exotic mammal species including carnivores, ungulates or primates.
You will also have:
- A high level of energy and physical fitness to enable you to meet the daily challenges of the
role.
- A passion for animal care and welfare, and a contributor to positive work culture.
- Excellent communication skills.
- A track record of innovative husbandry including the development of training and enrichment
programmes.
- Demonstrated commitment to the conservation of species and ecosystems.
-
Full driver’s license and the ability to drive a manual vehicle.
-
Recognised qualifications in Captive Animal Management and/or Zoology/Biology will be an advantage.
- You will need to show a thorough understanding of the role nutrition plays in the welfare of zoo
animals, and an understanding of the 5 domains of animal welfare
Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer
You will join an incredibly passionate team who are committed to their animals and the conservation
efforts Orana plays in the wild.
These are full-time positions, working on a set 40 hours, 5 days per week roster that may include weekends and public holidays.
The rostered days of the position are yet to be determined and the salary range for these positions are $50,000 –
$55,000 gross per annum.
As a member of our team we are able to offer you:
- A workplace dedicated to fostering positive team culture through our four core values: Care,
Empathy, Engage and Courage.
- Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including numerous helpful resources and
webinars.
- Opportunities for involvement through staff forums such as our Health and Safety Committee and Culture
Committee.
- Pathways for personal growth and development.
- A full uniform supplied plus a non-taxable allowance paid weekly to cover footwear and a basic
tool kit.
- Annual flu vaccination.
- Ample free parking on site.
Ētahi atu kōrero: Extra information
- You must be a NZ/Australian citizen or hold/be eligible for a NZ work visa.
- All successful applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
- Animal Keepers are required to be vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and have a current Tetanus booster.
- Reliable transport is required to get you to the Park.
If you are adaptable and open-minded, with a desire to push yourself to benefit conservation and animal welfare, APPLY NOW through our website link. Provide us with a letter of introduction and CV detailing your skills/experience relevant to the role and an outline of the species you have worked with.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Applications for this position close on Sunday 3rd May 2026,
5pm.
