JOB DESCRIPTION
Lucky Ladd Farms, an award-winning agritourism destination in Middle Tennessee, is hiring an Animal Keeper I (Swing) to join our Animal Care team. This is a great opportunity for early-career keepers who are serious about animal welfare and want to gain broad experience with a mixed collection in a professional, guest-facing setting.
As a Swing Keeper, you'll be cross-trained and rotate through multiple areas (hoofstock and farm animals, small mammals, birds/aviary, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates), providing daily husbandry and supporting interactive, educational guest experiences.
YOUR ROLE ON OUR TEAM:
- Perform daily husbandry: cleaning, disinfecting, feeding, watering, and monitoring animals
- Observe and report changes in health and behavior to senior staff
- Implement established enrichment plans and participate in basic training sessions as directed
- Complete daily logs and checklists accurately and on time
- Follow all SOPs to ensure USDA and TWRA compliance, and plan for ZAA accreditation
- Supervise guest-animal interactions in encounter areas; provide scheduled keeper talks
- Help mentor seasonal staff in assigned areas
SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES HAVE THESE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar field preferred.
- At least one year of work experience at a zoological facility, wildlife rehab, or similar professional setting
- Basic knowledge of animal husbandry and behavior for at least one taxa group (e.g., hoofstock, small mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians), multi-species preferred.
- Excellent observational and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
- Passion for animal welfare and a commitment to maintaining high standards of care
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing on your feet for extended periods of time, bending, stooping, and extending oneself
- Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Willing and able to work a variable swing schedule, including weekends and holidays
- Proof of current rabies vaccination, or willingness to be vaccinated, at LLF expense.
BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM:
- Competitive hourly based on experience: $15.00-$17.00
- Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift
- Paid Professional Development
- Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift
- Unlimited admission for you and 5 guests
- Discounts on dining and merchandise
- Annual team member appreciation event
- Employee referral bonus program
- Work shirt, work boots, and name badge provided
SCHEDULE:
- Variable swing schedule working up to 30 hours per week with weekday, weekend, and holiday requirements
- On call rotation for after hours animal emergencies
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Professional development assistance
Experience:
- paid professional animal care: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
