Animal Care & Operations Specialist

February 20, 2026

Care for the Rare Cumbria Closing date for applications is: 28th Feb 2026 Sector: Animal Care Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Job Title: Animal Care & Operations Specialist Reporting to: Executive Director Contract type: Seasonal and full time Initial base: Dalton-in-Furness, Cumbria, UK Permanent site: Launceston, Cornwall, UK About The Role This is not a conventional keeper post. Care for the Rare is a new type of species rescue centre built on an animal-centred, evidence-based philosophy of care. Welfare science, behavioural ecology and species-specific needs shape everything we do, from daily husbandry to habitat design and long-term planning. You will join us at a pivotal stage, supporting the management and relocation of a herd of six white rhino, with giraffe and other endangered herbivores to follow. As the Cornwall site develops, you will play an active role in building a welfare-led wildlife park from the ground up. We are hiring a variety of roles at different levels of experience. Key responsibilities Deliver high-quality daily husbandry and welfare management of rhino, giraffe and other hoofstock in line with our animal-centred, evidence-based approach Maintain accurate husbandry, behavioural and welfare records to support licensing, compliance and continuous improvement Contribute to the development and refinement of best practice standards and SOPs with senior management Support welfare monitoring, research activity and data collection on site Assist with animal transfers and developing site infrastructure Deliver keeper talks and engage professionally with visitors, partners and the wider zoo and conservation community Support general site operations, enclosure maintenance and grounds tasks as required Uphold high standards of health, safety and biosecurity at all times About You We are looking for someone who: Has practical experience in hoofstock or large mammal husbandry Understands and is motivated by evidence-based animal welfare Is organised, methodical and confident with record keeping and data collection Communicates clearly and professionally in public-facing settings Is adaptable, resilient and comfortable working in a fast-paced start-up environment Takes initiative, works collaboratively and is as genuinely committed to conservation and welfare as we are Relevant animal-based qualifications (completed or in progress), a full UK driving licence and the ability to undertake physically demanding outdoor work are required. Firearms experience / license is desirable. Location requirements You must be able to work initially in Cumbria for approximately 1–2 months and then relocate to the Cornwall site on an ongoing basis. Support for accommodation in Cumbria will be provided. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a new model of welfare-led wildlife conservation in the UK. Apply For This Job Please submit your application to: admin@carefortherare.com before Feb 28, 2026 We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interview will be contacted.

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