Snapshot

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is looking for Zoo Keeper volunteers who are interested in supporting our Animal Care Teams to provide industry leading wildlife care and welfare to our animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo. 

Rain, hail or shine, our Volunteer Keepers get involved with every aspect of animal care, so expect to be cleaning, chopping, wheelbarrowing, shovelling, raking, and anything else it takes to ensure our animals are provided with the highest level of welfare possible. 
 

Please refer to the Division Descriptions attached for more details on each of our areas:

• Division 1 - Ungulates
• Division 2 - Australian Mammals & farm animals
• Division 3 - Mixed Exotics
• Division 4 - Elephants
• Division 5 - Conservation & Education (reptiles, small Aussie mammals & birds)
• Wildlife Hospital – Animals in triage (Native animals and occasionally collection animals)
   

Position overview

Refer to the Divisional Descriptions for information on each of our Keeping Divisions and to decide which area is the best fit for you. You will be able to share your preference in the application however please note it won’t be a guarantee you will be appointed that division.

• 12 month position – At the end of which volunteers may reapply 
• Volunteer positions are available 7 days per week, Monday to Sunday
• Shift times and frequency (weekly or fortnightly) varies depending on division
• Successful applicants will be required to attend a short interview, this will likely be on 14th August.
• Successful individuals will be required to attend 1 (one) mandatory Induction session, which can be attended on either a weekday or a weekend:
  - Session 1: Thursday 5th September 2024
  - Session 2: Saturday 7th September 2024

To be successful in this role you will have 

• Commitment, punctuality, reliability, and a professional, friendly manner 
• Demonstrated ability to work as a part of a diverse team and capacity to read, understand and carefully follow directions and WHS protocols
• A good level of fitness and stamina and the ability to work in all weather conditions. A typical day as a volunteer keeper could see you complete anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day.
• Ability to meet the selection criteria for all divisions that you apply for
• All Volunteers are required to acquire and maintain a valid Working with Children Check (FREE for volunteers).
• All volunteers who work with, or care for, an exhibited animal are required to declare any convictions or charges in connection with ‘relevant offences’
• Agree and comply with the Taronga Code of Conduct, Taronga Volunteer Policy and all relevant policies and procedures

How to apply:

As part of your application, you will need to outline the reason you wish to become a Taronga Volunteer, as well as address how your skills, interests and or experience are relevant to this volunteer role.

APPLY NOW

Applications must be submitted via the application form by 11.45pm on Sunday 21st JULY 2024 

NOTE: Applications received via SEEK/GoVolunteer will NOT be processed. 

If you have any queries, please email volunteer@zoo.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 6881 1473

NOTE: If you are also applying for the Guest Experience Volunteer position at TWPZ Dubbo make sure you fill out a separate application using the link on the other advert.
 

Cost

• A Volunteer Programs fee of $58 for successful applicants.  
• This provides the following Volunteer benefits; 
• Uniform 
• Training 
• Complimentary entry passes to Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo for family and friends* 
• Discounts in our retail and food outlets and on our special programs 
• Free parking at both sites
• Free entry to Zoos Vic, Zoos SA and Zoos WA facilities 
• Networking opportunities 
• Opportunity to take part in special events and programs 

*Complimentary passes are distributed in December each year. 
Note: Financial support is available, if you require assistance please contact us.