Department of National Zoological Gardens Vacancies 2026: Apply for Assistant Curator, Keeper & Technical Posts
Date of Advertisement: January 23, 2026
Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
Organization: Department of National Zoological Gardens (Dehiwala Zoo)
Location: Dehiwala, Sri Lanka
The Department of National Zoological Gardens Vacancies 2026 have been officially announced, offering unique career opportunities for individuals passionate about wildlife, conservation, and zoological management. The department is inviting applications from qualified Sri Lankan citizens to fill several key positions ranging from management support to skilled technical and animal care roles.
Whether you are looking to start a career as an Animal Keeper, specialize as an Elephant Keeper, or join the administrative team as an Assistant Curator, this recruitment drive offers stable government employment with attractive benefits.
Vacancy Overview 2026
The Department is recruiting for the following permanent positions. Below is a quick summary of the available vacancies.
| Position Title | No. of Vacancies | Salary Scale Code | Service Category |
| Assistant Curator (Animal/Fish/Reptile/Garden) | 02 | MN-01 | Management Assistant (Non-Tech) |
| Assistant Fee Collector (Rates Assistant) | 02 | MN-01 | Management Assistant (Non-Tech) |
| Electrician | 04 | PL-03 | Primary – Skilled |
| Animal Keeper | 10 | PL-02 | Primary – Semi-Skilled |
| Elephant Keeper | 02 | PL-02 | Primary – Semi-Skilled |
Detailed Job Roles and Qualifications
Each position has specific educational and professional requirements. Please review them carefully before applying.
1. Assistant Curator (MN-01)
This role involves the management and oversight of animal sections (Mammals, Fish, Reptiles) or garden maintenance.
- Educational Qualifications:
- G.C.E. O/L: Passed 06 subjects in one sitting with Credit passes in Sinhala/Tamil, English, Mathematics, and one other subject.
- G.C.E. A/L: Passed 02 subjects in the Biology Stream (excluding the General Common Test).
- Experience: 03 years of experience in the relevant field is required.
- Age Limit: 18 – 30 Years.
2. Assistant Fee Collector / Rates Assistant (MN-01)
Responsible for revenue collection and ticketing operations.
- Educational Qualifications:
- G.C.E. O/L: Same requirements as Assistant Curator (6 subjects, 4 credits including Language & Math).
- G.C.E. A/L: Passed at least 01 subject (excluding General Common Test).
- Experience: 03 years of relevant experience.
- Age Limit: 18 – 30 Years.
3. Electrician (PL-03)
A skilled technical role responsible for maintaining the zoo’s electrical infrastructure.
- Educational Qualifications: Passed G.C.E. O/L in not more than two sittings with 06 subjects (including at least 02 Credits).
- Professional Qualifications: Must possess NVQ Level 4 certification in the Electrical field issued by a recognized institution.
- Experience: 03 years of experience in the field.
- Age Limit: 18 – 45 Years.
4. Animal Keeper (PL-02)
A hands-on role dedicated to the daily care, feeding, and welfare of zoo animals.
- Educational Qualifications: Passed G.C.E. O/L with 06 subjects (including 02 Credits) in not more than two sittings.
- Professional Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 (minimum) certification relevant to the post.
- Experience: 03 years of relevant experience.
- Age Limit: 18 – 45 Years.
5. Elephant Keeper (PL-02)
A specialized role for those with traditional or practical knowledge of elephant care.
- Educational Qualifications: Passed Grade 8 (Year 8).
- Professional Skills: Must have knowledge of elephant care and ability to perform traditional/local medical treatments for elephants.
- Experience: 03 years of experience in elephant management.
- Age Limit: 18 – 45 Years.
Salary Scales (2026)
The Department of National Zoological Gardens Vacancies 2026 offer competitive government salary scales adjusted for the year 2026.
| Position | Salary Scale (Monthly) |
| Assistant Curator / Rates Assistant | Rs. 45,230 – 78,360 |
| Electrician | Rs. 42,780 – 66,540 |
| Animal / Elephant Keeper | Rs. 41,800 – 65,560 |
Note: Selected candidates are also entitled to government-approved cost-of-living allowances and other benefits.
Selection Method
The selection process ensures that only the most capable candidates are chosen:
- Assistant Curator & Rates Assistant: Selection via a Written Examination and a General Interview.
- Electrician: Selection via a Professional Test and a Structured Interview.
- Animal/Elephant Keepers: Selection via a Practical Test and a Structured Interview.
How to Apply for Department of National Zoological Gardens Vacancies
The application procedure is strictly via Registered Post. Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Prepare the Application
- Download the specimen application form or prepare one on A4 paper (8.5″ x 12″) based on the format provided in the gazette.
- Ensure the application is filled in one language (Sinhala or Tamil).
Step 2: Gather Documents
You will need to present the following at the interview (do not attach originals to the postal application unless specified):
- Birth Certificate & National Identity Card (NIC).
- Educational Certificates & School Leaving Certificate.
- Professional/Experience Certificates.
- Two Character Certificates (Gramasewaka & Police Report).
Step 3: Certification
Your signature on the application must be attested by a Principal, JP, Attorney-at-Law, or a Staff Grade Officer in government service.
Step 4: Submission
- Enclose the application in an envelope.
- Write the Name of the Post Applied For clearly on the top left-hand corner of the envelope.
- Send it via Registered Post to the address below.
Mailing Address:
Director General,
Department of National Zoological Gardens,
Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha,
Dehiwala.
Deadline: Applications must be received on or before February 27, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the age limit for the Animal Keeper vacancy?
A: The age limit for Animal Keepers, Elephant Keepers, and Electricians is 18 to 45 years as of the closing date.
Q: Can I apply for the Elephant Keeper post without O/Ls?
A: Yes. The educational requirement for the Elephant Keeper post is passing Grade 8. However, you must have practical knowledge and 3 years of experience in elephant care.
Q: Is there a written exam for the Electrician post?
A: No. The selection for the Electrician post is done through a Professional Test (to test technical skills) and a Structured Interview.
Q: When is the closing date for the 2026 Dehiwala Zoo vacancies?
A: The closing date for all applications is February 27, 2026.
These Department of National Zoological Gardens Vacancies 2026 are a fantastic opportunity to work in one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved institutions. Whether you are skilled in electrical work, have a knack for animal care, or possess administrative talents, the Dehiwala Zoo welcomes your application.
Ensure your application is accurate, attested, and posted well before the February 27, 2026 deadline.
