Operations Team Leader

As an Operations Team Leader in a zoo or wildlife facility, you are responsible for the daily care and management of a designated section of animals, such as primates, African savannah species, or aquatic exhibits. You lead a small team of zookeepers, organising rotas, setting daily targets, and providing hands-on coaching to ensure animal welfare standards are consistently met. Your work involves assessing animal behaviour, administering treatments and specific medications under veterinary guidance, and maintaining the biosecurity of your section. You collaborate closely with veterinary staff, curators, and colleagues across other sections to plan long-term species management and coordinate engaging zoological exhibitions for the public. Depending on the size of your facility, you may also be involved in staff recruitment and section budgeting.

A Leaving Certificate with subjects such as Biology, Agricultural Science, or Chemistry is a strong foundation for this role. Most people enter via an NFQ Level 7 or Level 8 degree in Zoology, Animal Science, or Wildlife Biology, available at institutions such as University College Dublin, University College Cork, University of Galway, or ATU. QQI Level 5 or Level 6 PLC courses in Animal Care, available through many Colleges of Further Education and ETBs, can provide an alternative entry route into zoo keeping, from which you can progress to a team leader role with experience. Progression to a section leader or operations team leader position typically requires several years of practical zoo keeping experience combined with demonstrated leadership ability. There is no statutory registration body for zoo keepers in Ireland, though membership of professional bodies such as the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) is valued by employers. Employers may also support staff in completing further qualifications in management or animal science.