Animal Caretaker / Farmhand

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Animal Caretaker / Farmhand is responsible for the daily health, feeding, and care of the farm's livestock and poultry, and for keeping barns, paddocks, and animal areas clean, safe, and guest-ready. This role executes structured morning (AM) and/or evening (PM) chore routines and provides general animal care throughout the shift, including feeding, watering, cleaning, pasture checks, and hands-on work with the farm's zebu calves. The person in this role often works directly with guests during animal encounters and must be comfortable representing the farm to the public.

Responsibilities

• Work Morning, afternoon and/or evening chores for our petting farm animals
• Monitor animal health and behavior daily; flag injuries, illness, or concerns to the Farm Manager promptly
• Maintain clean, safe, and well-stocked feed, water, and bedding areas across all species
• Support halter training and socialization of young animals (e.g., calves, donkeys, dog, etc) to prepare them for guest interactions
• Help maintain fencing, paddocks, and barn infrastructure; report repairs needed
• Follow feed formulas and quantities precisely for each species
• Track and communicate feed, hay, and supply inventory; flag reorder needs
• Assist with guest-facing animal experiences (bottle feedings, cuddling sessions, tours) in a friendly, professional manner as needed
• Assist with seasonal events and festivals as needed, including animal-related activities for guests

Qualifications

• Prior experience with livestock, poultry, or farm animal care strongly preferred
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, early mornings, and/or evenings
• Able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs (feed bags, water buckets, hay) and perform physical labor for extended periods
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work a consistent shift schedule including weekends and holidays
• Comfortable interacting with guests, campers, and school groups in a warm, professional manner
• Detail-oriented; able to follow specific feeding and care instructions for multiple species
• Team player willing to take direction from the Farm Manager and communicate issues clearly
• Valid driver's license preferred; ability to operate a wheelbarrow, hand tools, and basic farm equipment

Physical Requirements

• Regularly walk, bend, kneel, and stand for extended periods across uneven, outdoor terrain
• Lift and carry feed, water, and hay up to 50 lbs regularly, and heavier loads occasionally with assistance
• Work in close proximity to large and small livestock, poultry, and other farm animals
• Tolerate exposure to dust, hay, animal dander, and outdoor allergens

Schedule & Shift Options

This role may be hired for AM shift only, PM shift only, or a combined full-day shift covering both routines. Because animals require care every day of the year, weekend and holiday coverage is a standard part of the schedule, typically on a rotating basis with the rest of the animal care team.

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