Animal Caretaker

Animal Caretaker 9295 Christiana Fosterville Road, Christiana, TN 37037 $16

• $18 an hour
• Full-time $16
• $18 an hour

•

Full-time SUMMARY:

The Gentle Barn is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to rescuing animals and helping both animals and people heal. Through innovative programs like Cow Hug Therapy®, Equine Therapy, and educational experiences, we create meaningful connections that inspire hope, compassion, and transformation. We are a mission-driven, fast-paced, and deeply collaborative team committed to making a real impact every day. At The Gentle Barn, you'll be part of a purpose-filled environment where your work directly contributes to changing lives, both human and animal. We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Animal Caretaker to join our team. This full-time role involves caring for pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, turkeys, horses, and cows who call the sanctuary home. It's a highly sought-after and deeply meaningful position, ideal for someone who not only loves working with animals but also thrives as part of a collaborative, like-minded team committed to providing exceptional care and kindness every day. This is a full-time, onsite position .

RESPONSIBILITIES

Ensure animals are properly fed, and provided fresh water and a clean living environment (fresh hay, straw, shavings, and mucking out stalls) Monitor the health and well-being of animals, including weight, veterinary care, medications, and bandages Prepare and provide fresh, organic produce for the animals daily Provide specialty care to animals with additional needs Oversee daily medications including the storage, stocking, and distribution of such medications Maintain cleanliness throughout the entire facility through dusting, pressure washing, and wiping down of equipment on a regular basis Utilize the gator to pick up and clean poop throughout the animals' pastures and paddocks Perform routine property maintenance and special projects as they arise, such as landscaping, painting, building, or other repairs Keep tools and other equipment organized and in good working order Miscellaneous maintenance tasks as needed or requested

QUALIFICATIONS

Possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) Must have horse experience (grooming, haltering, walking) Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions Comfortable being around large animals Punctual and reliable Highly trainable and eager to learn Available to work varying hours based on the needs of the business including weekends Be a gentle and kind person who cares deeply for animals Prior experience training and caring for various animals is a plus Animal medical knowledge a plus Experience pulling trailers a plus Prior landscaping, contracting, building, and maintenance experience a plus Vegan or Vegetarian lifestyle a plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Perform physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and uneven terrain Lift, carry, and move heavy items such as feed bags, hay bales, water buckets, and equipment (often 50+ lbs) Walk, stand, bend, kneel, and squat for extended periods throughout the day Safely handle and work around large animals, including restraining, guiding, and assisting with movement when needed Clean and maintain enclosures, barns, and pastures, including shoveling, raking, and hauling waste Operate basic farm tools and equipment to support daily animal care and facility upkeep

PERKS & BENEFITS

Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage Retirement plan, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Paid time off, including vacation days, personal days, sick leave, and paid company holidays Hands-on learning opportunities Supportive, mission-driven culture focused on compassion, collaboration, and well-being