Work Placement Program
Work Placement Program
Work Placement participants come from all walks of life to join the Symbio crew. Here you can work with dedicated people, from whom you can gain knowledge, developing your own professional and personal skills.
Work Placement participants are an important part of the team, and we welcome their involvement and enthusiasm. People participate for many different reasons: to learn what it’s like to be a zoo keeper and to gain the practical experience required as part of their vocational studies.
There are many benefits to being involved in the Work Experience Program. It’s a great way to show potential employers that you are hard-working, dedicated to giving back to the community, and to make a contribution to conservation.
You will also learn more about the animals themselves. In addition, it’s a fun and rewarding way to spend your free time in the best office in town, surrounded by amazing animals from all over the world.
ABOUT
Are you studying an animal-based vocational course such as a Cert III in Captive Animals or a Bachelor of Science in Zoology? Do you have a passion for conservation, enjoy working outdoors, and possess a friendly, outgoing, and dependable nature? If so, you might be exactly what we’re looking for!
At Symbio Wildlife Park, we offer the chance to gain hands-on experience with some of the world’s most amazing animals, all while meeting the key practical requirements to complete your studies.
Work placement participants at Symbio are recognized for developing some of the highest skills in the industry, making them some of the most employable professionals in zoology and wildlife conservation.
A Day in the Life of a Work Placement Participant
As a work placement participant, you’ll be involved in a variety of tasks designed to help you grow your industry skills, including:
- Maintaining enclosures by sweeping, hosing, raking, cleaning windows, and taking care of animal waste
- Preparing food, treats, and enrichments for the animals
- Engaging with visitors to educate them about our conservation efforts and the animals we care for
- Public speaking during Animal Presentations and keeper talks with visitors and school groups
- Handling animals on and offsite, assisting keepers with their daily tasks
Requirements to Join the Work Placement Program
To be eligible, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be willing to work the same hours as our keepers (7:50 am – 5:00 pm) and in all weather conditions
- Have an up-to-date tetanus vaccination (hepatitis A & B vaccinations are required before working with our primates)
- Be currently studying a vocational animal-based course (TAFE/University)
- Commit to at least one day per week (you choose the day, with flexibility available)
- Provide two passport-sized photos with your application
- Make a $100 donation (cash only) on your trial day, which contributes to conservation efforts and training costs (non-refundable)
The Application Process
- Submit your application.
- Our senior Zoo Keepers will contact you to schedule a brief interview (5-10 minutes).
- If we both think it’s a good fit, you’ll be invited for a trial day at the Zoo.
- After your trial day, if accepted, you’ll undergo a compulsory 4-week period to demonstrate your competency.
- Upon successful completion, you’ll become a full participant, receive a uniform, and enjoy further benefits as you progress.
Join our team and start your journey to becoming a skilled and employable zoo keeper. Apply today to make a difference!