Caregiver, Environment

***Applications for this position will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications at the earliest opportunity to maximize their chances of consideration.***

Caregiver, Environment team members are crucial, valued members at Farm Sanctuary who are tasked with ensuring our Sanctuary residents have safe and healthy living environments on our 275-acre site. This position reports to the Manager of Environment and is a great fit for individuals who enjoy physical labor in an outdoor setting. Responsibilities focus on creating an environment that supports the health and wellbeing of the animals in our care. 

Responsibilities

• Provide animal enclosure cleaning and bedding
• Provide environmental enrichment
• Provide general landscaping, as well as snow removal in the winter months
• Provide general work in support of large maintenance projects including tasks such as painting and fence maintenance 
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Sanctuary Environment & Transport

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods standing and walking throughout sanctuary grounds. 
• Must be able to perform strenuous physical labor and lifting (up to 60 lbs regularly; team-lift heavier amounts regularly)
• Must be able to bend, lift, push, stoop, stretch, climb, and crawl and other strenuous activities
• Must be able to regularly perform work in a variety of weather conditions; almost all work is done in outdoor setting that is not climate controlled

Qualifications:

• Must meet physical requirements
• Must be a team player and demonstrate willingness to help others
• Flexible with positive attitude, willingness to pitch in where needed and as assigned
• Reliable and dependable
• Must be able to communicate with others in a respectful and productive manner 
• Able to follow direction and complete all tasks  as assigned
• Comfort with and ability to develop expertise working with all species in Farm Sanctuary’s care.
• Proactively centers racial equity at Farm Sanctuary in all work contributes to an anti-racist culture on-site, and exhibits humility.
• Preferred qualifications, but not required:
• Previous farm or work experience at an animal-care facility
• Farm animal handling experience and skills (large and/or small animal)
• Farm equipment knowledge & ability to drive tractors and trailers (CDL a plus!)

Specifications:

• Terms of employment: Permanent full-time, non-exempt position
• Reports to: Manager, Environment
• Pay: $20 per hour
  • Farm Sanctuary adheres to a non-negotiation philosophy regarding compensation and benefits outside the posted pay in our commitment to equitable hiring practices.
• Additional Specifications: Work schedule varies; regular weekend and holiday availability required; evening hours may be required during summer months
• Travel:  Occasional travel may be required to assist with transport for animal adoptions or rescues
• Benefits: Competitive benefits package, including 13 paid holidays; generous paid time off; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 403(b) plan; flexible spending accounts; long-term disability insurance; free access to the CALM meditation app; and access to the Nivati wellness platform

  Our Process:

  • Stage 1: 30-minute virtual interview with a member of our HR team
  • Stage 2: On-Site Working Interview
  • Stage 3: Reference Checks
  • Stage 4: Job Offer

Farm Sanctuary is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging. We work hard to provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We take our duty seriously to protect employees with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

We believe that our prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion is a strength and essential to achieving our mission. A diverse workforce brings many perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to more creative and effective solutions to our complex issues. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive environment, we foster a culture of belonging where innovation and growth can thrive. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization, including hiring and recruitment practices, employee development and training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are core components in fulfilling our mission of rescuing and protecting farmed animals from cruelty, and we are committed to creating a culture of respect, civility, and compassion for all.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Any photos or videos taken in the scope of employment and/or related to Farm Sanctuary are considered work product and intellectual property of Farm Sanctuary.