Animal & Research Intern Placement - Elephants

Description

Woburn Safari Park, located in Bedfordshire, is offering students the opportunity to join our industry placements in the animal and research departments. These placements provide students with the chance to gain husbandry skills and experience working alongside the animal keeping team.

Animal and Research Intern Placements

Students will develop skills in animal husbandry and management through industry placements. A commitment of 6 to 10 months is required, ideally 5 days a week, though this can be flexible. Students should be studying a relevant course supporting a year in the industry.

Key Tasks

• Animal husbandry, including mucking out, preparation, and provision of food, enrichment, and enclosure maintenance.
• Guest interaction through enclosure manning, giving keeper talks, or patrolling sections.
• Adherence to safety regulations at all times.
• Hands-on experience in the husbandry of exotic animals.
• Knowledge acquisition in the management of captive exotic animals.
• Provide excellent customer service and visitor education.

The Successful Student Should Have The Following

• Previous experience working with animals (experience with non-exotic animals is acceptable).
• Excellent communication and relevant IT skills.
• A strong understanding and appreciation of health and safety.
• Interest in animal management and conservation.
• Strong work ethic, good time management, and the ability to work independently and within a team.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are required to attend the placement.

Research Opportunity

There is an opportunity to conduct a research project as part of this role, potentially contributing to a final year dissertation. Research must adhere to Woburn Safari Park's ethical and research guidelines, with proposals needing submission and approval before commencement.

Note: This is a voluntary placement with no payment offered and may include weekend work. Students are expected to financially support themselves throughout the placement. Access to a vehicle is necessary, and there is no public transport available. Accommodation is not provided, however, local student accommodation can be advised.

Placements Are Available In The Following Areas

• Elephants - caring for Asian elephants (1 placement available).

All employees working with animals must be 18 or over to comply with Health & Safety Regulations.