Donkey Care & Rehabilitation Specialist (Full‑Time)

NFP People; Belfast City District; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life assurance

31 days holiday (including Bankhols)

Wellbeing team

Pilates and Yoga classes

Free parking

Employee discounts

Job summary

The Donkey Sanctuary in Belfast (Templepatrick) is seeking a flexible and professional person with a passion for donkeys to join our dedicated team. The role is based at the Belfast Centre, Templepatrick, offering a full-time permanent contract starting January 2027, with a 37.5 hour week and a weekend rota.

You will care for resident donkeys and assist the Centre Manager in maintaining a safe working environment.

Qualifications

• Previous equine or animal husbandry experience.
• Collaborative, positive team player.
• Physically fit and able to lift ~20 kg.
• Willing to work outdoors in varying weather.
• Full UK manual driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Provide care by routine checking, feeding, medicating, grooming, weighing, worming and training the resident donkeys, mules, ponies and hinnies; assist the vet, farrier and dentist as required.
• Assist with rehabilitation and training of donkeys under supervision.
• Provide daily feedback to the Centre Manager on donkey health, feeding regimes and land management; liaise with staff for smooth centre operation.
• Assist with welfare support and collaborate with the Equine Operations Department.
• Assist with all aspects of offsite visits, including loading, unloading and supervising donkeys during transport.
• Maintain up-to-date manual records for the donkeys and farming practices.

Skills

Equine/animal husbandry experience

Team collaboration

Physical fitness

Outdoor work in adverse weather

Training willingness

Full UK manual driving licence

Job description

The Donkey Sanctuary in Belfast (Templepatrick) is seeking a flexible and professional person with a passion for donkeys to join our dedicated team. The role is based at the Belfast Centre, Templepatrick, offering a full-time permanent contract starting January 2027, with a 37.5 hour week and a weekend rota.

You will care for resident donkeys and assist the Centre Manager in maintaining a safe working environment.