Caregiver, Animal Wellness

***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.***

Summary: As a vital member of the Sanctuary team, the Caregiver, Animal Wellness provides essential daily needs to the residents. They assist in helping achieve optimal wellbeing for all the residents which includes their physical, emotional, cognitive and social health. The Caregiver, Animal Wellness works closely with the management team to identify concerns, course of action and implementation of quality care. They should have a strong desire and ability to perform hands-on work and a personal commitment to improving the lives of farmed animals. 

Responsibilities:

• Carry out and maintain Animal feeding and watering schedules
• Perform animal health care tasks and treatments
• Identify common health issues
• Discuss treatment options
• Prepare and administer medications
• Display a basic understanding of medications
• Dose medications
• Observe and document animal behaviors and wellness 
• Complete shelter projects as assigned such as feed ordering, med ordering, charting
• Provide daily enrichment
• Assist with veterinarian appointments
• Participate in health checks
• Perform proper animal handling techniques
• Partake in wellness meetings
• Explore innovative techniques including cooperative care, holistic care, etc.
• Supports Animal Care Intern Program by working with Interns onsite in daily tasks

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout sanctuary grounds. 
• Must be able to perform strenuous physical labor and lifting (up to 50 lbs regularly; team-lift heavier amounts regularly)
• Must be able to bend, lift, push, stoop, stretch, climb, and crawl and other strenuous  physical activities
• Must be able to regularly perform job responsibilities work in a variety of weather conditions; almost all work is done in outdoor setting that is not climate controlled

Qualifications:

• Minimum of one year as a Farm Sanctuary Assistant Caregiver, Animal Wellness OR Minimum two years’ experience at animal care facility; volunteer history at animal advocacy organization(s); candidates with only one year of experience may still be considered but would start as an Assistant Caregiver, Animal Wellness
• Keen animal behavior observation skills
• Demonstrates ability to follow detailed instructions and perform animal care duties as assigned
• Ability to work well with a variety of people and contribute to a healthy team environment
• Reliable and dependable with timeliness and attendance
• Commitment to Farm Sanctuary’s animal care policies
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record, preferred
• Alignment with Farm Sanctuary’s values of compassion, understanding, integrity, transformation, and freedom. 
• Familiarity, commitment to, and experience with the practice of equity and social justice, and the principles embedded in Farm Sanctuary’s mission

We embrace candidates from a range of backgrounds and experiences, regardless of whether they satisfy all the specified requirements. We encourage you to apply, even if you have an unconventional or non-traditional background

Specifications:

• Terms of employment: Permanent full-time, non-exempt position
• Reports to: Manager, Wellness
• 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.
• Location: Watkins Glen
• 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
• Additional Specifications: Work schedule varies; regular weekend and holiday availability required; evening hours may be required during summer months

Our Process:

• Stage 1: 30-minute virtual interview with People and Culture team member
• Stage 2: 1-hour video interview with Animal Care manager
• Stage 3: 2 Day On-Site Working Interview
• Stage 4: Reference Checks
• Stage 5: 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.