Main entrance at Colchester Zoological Society

Department
Maintenance

Location
Colchester Zoological Society

Employment Type
Full Time

Hours Per Week
5 Days Per Week

Closing Date
14th May 2026

If you are interested in applying, please complete the Application Form below and send the completed form along with your CV to hr@colchesterzoo.org

An exciting opportunity has arisen for the right candidate to join the CZS Maintenance Team as a Scaffolder / Labourer.

This is a dual job role which encompasses both scaffold work and general labour tasks. The ideal candidate will need to ensure safe access for members of the Maintenance Team on all jobs onsite at CZS. They will also work within our labouring team, working on a multitude of tasks from ground works and drainage, to block paving and habitat improvements as well as demolition and other various tasks as required.

The ideal candidate must have a minimum of 5 years experience working as a scaffolder. A qualification in scaffolding is essential and previous experience in a labouring role is desirable.

The right person for this job must enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions, and must want to work to promote and achieve the high standards of safety and quality compliance that CZS demands for our guests, colleagues and animals.

  • To liaise with Supervisor and other team members to perform the required daily operations and any construction / maintenance tasks deemed appropriate.
  • Ensure safe access for members of the Maintenance Team on all jobs onsite at CZS.
  • Working across the site to deliver a range of construction and maintenance activities on time and to a high standard.
  • Potential work on other premises related to our business.
  • Construction, groundwork, demolition and labouring.
  • To ensure that the presentation of CZS facilities gives the most favourable impression at all times.
  • Driving digger, dumper and front loaders and possibly other company vehicles.
  • Providing an excellent level of customer service.
  • Operating hand held equipment and some heavy machinery.
  • Reporting any damage or vandalism to the Grounds Manager.
  • To ensure all necessary and appropriate standards have been implemented and are operating in accordance with the Company’s Health & Safety Policy.

Role Requirements

  • A qualification in scaffolding is essential.
  • At least 5 years experience working as a scaffolder.
  • Previous experience in a labouring role is desirable.
  • Punctual, hard-working and able to use own initiative.
  • A highly motivated individual with excellent Grounds Maintenance skills.
  • Time management.
  • Excellent and clear communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a team.
  • To work calmly and effectively in a high-pressure environment.
  • Knowledge of Health and Safety compliance.
  • Maintenance of records relating to tasks performed, timesheets, materials, vehicles and equipment.
  • Ability to interact positively and professionally with the public and colleagues.
  • This is a permanent full time position 5 days per week.
  • Normal hours will be Monday – Friday, 7am – 4:30pm.
  • You will be expected to work at least one weekend day, public holidays and school holidays.

Evaluation

For the first five months of employment, the jobholder will be asked to complete a one month, three month and five month self-assessment. This will gauge their feelings of the job and assess their progress towards meeting targets.

Working Environment

  • CZS is a non-smoking environment and smoking is not permitted by members of staff whilst on the premises.
  • CZS is an equal opportunities employer.

Benefits

  • FREE Zoo visits*
  • FREE onsite parking
  • Workplace pension scheme
  • Staff events
  • Discounts on Animal Adoptions, Annual Memberships and Animal Experiences*
  • Discounts in the Outpost Gift Shop*
  • Discounts in food outlets
  • 28 days annual leave (incl. Bank Holidays)
  • Competitive hourly rate
  • Uniform provided
  • Regular training
  • Weekly staff newsletter

*Benefits dependent on probation period.