Vacancy for a Butterfly House Assistant

Do you have a few hours to spare? We have a great vacancy in the Butterfly House at Berkeley Castle.....

Berkeley Castle is an historic visitor attraction in Berkeley, Gloucestershire which is open to the public from April to October. Within the Grounds is the Tropical Butterfly House which opens to the public from May to September. Throughout the year the Butterfly House environment has to be managed to ensure that when it opens, the flora and fauna is well looked after and at its best. The Berkeley Castle Estate is now recruiting for someone to join the small team responsible for running the Butterfly House.

Primary Duties

• Maintenance of the plants and water feature in the Butterfly House.
• Management of ventilation and watering to ensure correct environmental conditions for each season.
• Pest and disease control activities throughout year.
• Care and feeding of all livestock within the Butterfly House (butterflies, birds and fish).
• Handling and management of incoming stock of pupae through to emergence of butterflies.
• Interaction with visiting public.
• Assisting in work programme required to secure zoo licence.

Skills Required

• A sensitive approach to the care of plants and wildlife.
• Patience and manual dexterity to handle delicate pupae, caterpillars and butterflies.
• The ability to work in hot and humid conditions.
• Communicate well within the team and with the public.
• Ability to take a proactive approach to the maintenance of the living environment within the Butterfly House.
• Reliable and responsible.

Hours: Monday – Friday 8.30am-11am.  Occasional weekend cover will be required.

Rate of pay:     £6.50 per hour

Please email your CV and covering letter by the closing date of Friday 3rd October 2014 to recruitment@berkeley-castle.com