TWPZ Apprentice Horticulturalist

Company description:

At Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, we lead conservation efforts in the field and participate in regional and global conservation breeding programs to establish insurance populations for species threatened in the wild. We also operate two wildlife hospitals that treat and rehabilitate injured native wildlife, as well as providing best practice health care for the animals at our Zoos.

Taronga has a deep commitment to conservation science. In Australia and internationally, we work with universities, governments and conservation partners to respond to challenges impacting wildlife and people. We also have a proud tradition of delivering conservation education programs that increase knowledge and awareness and inspire students to become global leaders in conservation. Taronga receives support from the NSW Government and the Taronga Foundation. Established in 2000, the Taronga Foundation raises funds for conservation, education programs and wildlife in our care.

Job description:

• Located at Dubbo's Iconic - Taronga Western Plains Zoo - Wiradjuri Country
• 4 Year Horticulturist Apprentice position - Certificate III in Parks and Gardens
• Early 2026 start date

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is looking for a motivated and willing to learn Apprentice Horticulturist to join our Assets team, starting in 2026 This is a fantastic opportunity for a school leaver, or adult apprentice, wanting to enter this hands on industry and complete their apprenticeship.

This role is totally unique; you'll be working in the zoo grounds Sometimes you'll even work on exhibit facilities for animals such as Lions, meercats, tigers, elephants, Rhinos + so much more

Taronga will support 1 paid day per week where you will complete your trade studies at TAFE.

About the Role…

The Apprentice Horticulturist services the presentation of exhibits and general facilities, maintenance of bush land area using bush regeneration and revegetation techniques, tree health and essential animal food collection service for the exhibited collection, under the general supervision of a Horticulture Supervisor/ Horticulture Manager.

You will be required to attend TAFE training per week, as part of the standard working week.

Key Accountabilities…

• Carry out horticultural duties including, general grounds and gardens maintenance and weed control including the administering of approved chemicals and species identification.
• Provide technical expertise and advice to labouring resources in carrying out of general grounds maintenance (including remnant bush areas and browse plantation).
• Assist with supervising and training of apprentices.
• Undertake a variety of landscaping projects within grounds and exhibits.
• Undertake bush regeneration and revegetation in and around Taronga premises.
• Work effectively as a member of a high performing team, to assist Taronga in its achievement of strategic outcomes.
• Comply with and suggest sustainability practices in the workplace to help achieve Taronga's sustainability targets and reduce environmental impact.

About You…

We are looking for a candidate that has:

• Must be eligible to enrol in the relevant TAFE trade course - Certificate III in Parks and Gardens
• Foundational critical thinking and problem solving skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and compliance with industry standards.
• Work well within a team environment and demonstrated ability to take instructions.
• Hold or eligible to hold a current NSW driver license or ability to have existing license formally recognised. (if over relevant age)
• Obtain and maintain a current paid NSW Working with Children Check at own expense (if 18 years +).
• Pre employment Q Fever vaccination obtained at your own expense

About Us…

Our employees enjoy generous employment conditions including some of the following:

• Complimentary family and friends passes across both Taronga's Sydney & Dubbo Zoo's
• A wide range of discounts on our award winning accommodation across both sites
• Discounted food and beverage purchases across the sites
• Discounted Fitness Passport
• Free onsite zoo car parking
• We're a social team; there's always lots going on around the zoo that we get involved with
• • more

About Applying…

Please submit your resume and a cover letter of one page. You are also required to complete the following target question as part of your application.

1. What is it about starting a Horticulturist Apprenticeship at Taronga Western Plains Zoo that motivates you?
2. This is a 4 year apprenticeship, aimed at either a school leaver, or adult apprentice. Please give us a brief summary where you are in your career currently.

Applications Close:11:59pm Monday 1 December 2025