Zookeeper I (part-time)

About the role

Lucky Ladd Farms, an award-winning agritourism destination in Middle Tennessee, is seeking a Zookeeper I (Swing) to join their Animal Care team. This position is ideal for early-career keepers interested in gaining diverse experience with a variety of animals in a professional, guest-facing setting.

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar field preferred
• 1-2 years of paid animal care experience in an AZA or ZAA facility, or similar professional wildlife/animal care 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

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar field
• Minimum of 1-2 years of paid animal care experience in an AZA or ZAA facility, or similar professional wildlife/animal care 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

Skills

• Strong observational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Knowledge of animal husbandry and behavior for at least one taxa group
• Physical stamina and ability to perform physically demanding tasks

Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate based on experience: $15.00-$17.00
• Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift
• Paid Professional Development
• 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

Pay

• Hourly rate: $15.00-$17.00

Schedule

• Variable swing schedule working up to 30 hours per week
• Weekday, weekend, and holiday requirements

Contact Information

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and passion for animal welfare. Applications can be submitted via the company's website.