Team Leader Primates
- Netherlands
Team Leader Primates
AAP (Animal Advocacy and Protection) is a European animal welfare organization dedicated to the welfare of exotic animals. It is our mission to end their suffering by rescuing animals in need and advocate for better laws and regulations.
For the primates team in Almere (NL), AAP is looking for a team leader who is responsible for managing and inspiring a team of 14 animal caretakers. Are you an experienced team leader who has experience in managing on an operational level and will work with and for the animals, then we are looking for you!
For the primates team in Almere (NL), AAP is looking for a team leader who is responsible for managing and inspiring a team of 14 animal caretakers. Are you an experienced team leader who has experience in managing on an operational level and will work with and for the animals, then we are looking for you!
Within the Rescue & Rehabilitation department, the primates team is responsible for the daily care of our macaques, baboons, capuchins, vervets and other primates. The primates team consists of 14 paid animal caretakers and a lot of volunteers and interns from different nationalities. The team is professional and works according to standard (safety) procedures, protocols and hand-off policy. For the care of the animals the team receives advice from the specialist team on behavioural and veterinary related topics and is involved in the rescue, rehabilitation and outplacement of the animals.
What are you going to do!
• You hierarchically lead the primates team in Almere.
• You are responsible for the daily care and rehabilitation of the animals in your care.
• You are responsible for implementing and evaluating the R&R operational procedures concerning the primates team.
• You will contribute to and implement the annual plan.
• You are working together with the other team leaders, the specialists team and APL team (animal planning & logistics).
• You have a role within the Emergency Response Team of AAP.
What do we offer?
• An inspiring workplace in the green heart of Almere, within easy reach of Amsterdam and Utrecht.
• A workplace near the animals we rescue.
• A position with social value and relevance, within an international organization.
• A professional workplace that encourages and supports dedication, accessibility and vigorousness.
• A permanent contract (after 2 twelve month contracts).
• Your salary will be between € 3.198 and € 4.110 gross per month (based on 40 hours per week) dependent on relevant work experience, with room for growth within the function.
• 8% Holiday allowance.
• An Personal Benefit Budget of 3,5% of the gross annual salary.
• 24 vacation days per year on a full time basis.
• A good and sustainable pension arrangement.
What do you bring?
• A minimum of four year work experience as an operational manager.
• A completed education in animal care management or related relevant field.
• Excellent written and spoken English (English Common European Framework of Reference level: B2).
• At least one year experience in Primates husbandry.
• A personality that:
o Can manage and coach people with different (cultural) backgrounds.
o Has excellent social and communication skills used for cooperation.
o Has a decisive, flexible, practical, and honest nature.
o A solution-orientated attitude.
o Is willing to work in weekends.
Do you want more information or apply directly?
Enthusiastic, but still some questions? Please call Eva Schippers, Head of Rescue and Rehabilitation, telephone 036 523 8787. Send your application letter and cv before 28th of February 2026.
A practical assignment and assessment will be part of the application process.
Only people with the right to work within Europe will be considered for this application.
A practical assignment and assessment will be part of the application process.
Only people with the right to work within Europe will be considered for this application.
About AAP
AAP (Animal Advocacy and Protection) is a European animal welfare organization dedicated to the welfare of exotic animals. It is our mission to end their suffering by rescuing animals in need and advocate for better laws and regulations.
AAP operates two rescue and rehabilitation facilities, one in Almere (the Netherlands) and one in Villena (Spain). We rescue animals from illegal trade, circuses or private owners and help them recover both mentally and physically. When they are rehabilitated and ready to move on, we find a good place for them with one of our outplacement partners, such as a sanctuary or suitable zoo.
In Almere we have about 100 employees and more than 200 volunteers. We work in a spacious and modern location, in the middle of the green heart of Almere. Our office and facility centre are located on the same grounds as our rescued animals. Nowhere else can you see the result of your work so directly!
In Villena we have 24 employees and 16 volunteers. Our office and facility centre are located on the same grounds as our rescued animals. Nowhere else can you see the result of your work so directly!
Check out our website www.aap.eu and follow our stories on social media!