Veterinary Program Assistant - Hamilton Zoo

About the role

Hamilton Zoo, located at Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct, is an accredited zoo and aquarium with Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia membership and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums membership. Operated by Hamilton City Council, the site spans 35 hectares and is home to more than 500 native and exotic animals.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Head Nurse – Veterinary Program, this position supports the smooth daily running of the zoo’s animal nutrition centre, veterinary clinic, and other Te Kaaroro precinct duties as needed. It is a fixed-term role through 15 March 2027.

Key duties

• Support the Nutrition Centre Specialist with coordinating, monitoring, sourcing, preparing, and ordering nutrition supplies for the animal department.
• Assist the Head Nurse – Veterinary Program in delivering excellent animal care, including hospital husbandry and biosecurity for imports and exports.
• Carry out operating procedures such as diet management and minimum husbandry standards, along with other work instructions as directed by the team leader.
• Maintain written records accurately, thoroughly, and on time.
• Recognise and escalate issues or concerns to the Head Nurse – Veterinary Program without delay.
• Follow health and safety requirements and procedures to help maintain a safe environment for staff and the public.

Skills and experience

• Current full New Zealand driver licence.
• Good physical fitness.
• Previous animal husbandry experience.
• Knowledge of zoo operations, zoo philosophy, and captive animal management practices.
• Strong time management and the ability to work to set schedules consistently.
• Basic computer competence.
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Self-awareness and a mindset focused on performance, with the ability to develop yourself and others.

Salary and other information

The salary is circa $61,000, depending on skills and experience.

Applications close on 17 June 2026. Shortlisting may begin as applications are received.

Applicants who are shortlisted will go through an interview process, reference checks, and a criminal check. Because this is a safety-sensitive role, a pre-employment medical assessment, including drug and alcohol testing, will also be required.

Candidates with access needs during the selection process are encouraged to let the employer know in advance so appropriate support can be arranged.

The council is committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and values inclusiveness and belonging in the workplace. It also notes that this role is sourced directly and that unsolicited agency contact will not result in commissions, fees, or other payments.

Additional information

If you want to include a cover letter, combine it with your CV in a single PDF file or use the message box provided for the hiring team. A position description is available for review.