AAP Animal Advocacy and Protection is a European animal welfare organization dedicated to the welfare of exotic mammals. It is our mission to end their suffering by rescuing animals in need and advocate for better laws and regulations.
For a position in the Primate Team at AAP Almere we are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate Animal Caretaker (32 hours per week). If you are interested, we invite you to apply!
Within the Rescue & Rehabilitation Department, the Primate Team is responsible for the daily care of our macaques, baboons, capuchins, vervets and other species. The Primate Team consists of 12 paid animal caretakers and a lot of volunteers and interns with different nationalities. The team works according to standard (safety) procedures, protocols and a hands-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 will you do?
• You are responsible for the daily care of the primates.
• In practice your job will largely include cleaning, feeding, observing, providing enrichment, assisting in the rehabilitation of the animals and guiding and training a number of volunteers and students.
• You will be trained to perform social introductions between the primates.
• You monitor food and water intake and the general behaviour and health of the animals.
• Administrative tasks are part of your daily routine.
• You will be personally responsible for some team overall projects.
• You carry out easy maintenance work according to agreements and instructions.
• The team is partly self-coordinating. You will work closely with the other Animal Caretakers and will be part of a team of 12 people.
• You will be supervised by the Team Leader.
What does AAP offer?
• An opportunity to develop yourself in the field of animal care.
• An inspiring working environment situated in the green heart of Almere. Within easy reach of the cities Amsterdam and Utrecht.
• A position with social value and relevance, within an international organization.
• A professional work place that encourages and supports dedication, accessibility and vigorousness.
• 32 hours per week for 12 months with the possibility for a permanent contract after 2 years (2 contracts of 12 months each).
• Salary between € 2.124,80 and € 2.621,60 gross per month (based on 32 hours) depending on relevant work experience, with room for growth within the function.
• A Personal Benefit Budget of 3,5% of the gross annual salary.
• 8% Holiday allowance on the gross annual salary.
• 24 days holiday per year (based on a full-time contract).
• A good and sustainable pension arrangement.
Who are we looking for?
• Affinity with the goals of AAP.
• Minimum MBO level 3 (education level NLQF3/ EQF3 or higher).
• At least 2 years of experience in working with primates in captivity is essential.
• Good physical condition and ability to work under stress.
• Prepared to work weekends and public holidays.
• Capable of working independently as well as being a team player.
• Capable of taking initiative.
• Discipline to work with protocols and work ethics.
• Prepared to share knowledge and information.
• Competent in English, both oral and written.
• Capable of working with relevant computer software.
Do you want more information or apply directly?
Enthusiastic, but you still have some questions? Please call phone number +31 (0)36 5238 755. The closing date is the 31st May 2026. Desirable start date would be in July 2026. The application process consists of two interviews and a practical assignment. You will also be asked to do a personality test online.
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!