Breeder

Butterfly Dans; Kissimmee (FL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A butterfly farming organization in Kissimmee, Florida, is seeking dedicated individuals for a hands-on position involving the care of live butterflies and greenhouse maintenance. The role requires reliability and a strong work ethic, as daily operations are crucial for the welfare of plants and animals. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, and the ability to work in a physically demanding farm environment. Join our long-standing operation and contribute to preserving butterfly species.

Qualifications

• Comfortable with physically demanding tasks in varying weather conditions.
• No felony convictions.
• Bilingual candidates are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Breeding and caring for butterflies at all life stages.
• Collecting and preparing food for butterfly containers.
• Sanitizing plastic containers used for pupae.
• Watering plants.
• Weeding and cleaning general upkeep.
• Assisting with live butterfly farm tours.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Ability to work well in a team

Clear and respectful communication

Kindness and professionalism

Leadership potential

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Position Type: On-site | Full Time | Labor-intensive | Year-round

Butterfly Dans is one of the oldest butterfly farms in the world. We specialize in breeding butterflies for museums, exhibits, conservatories, schools, and special events. Depending on the season, we maintain and breed between 12–17 butterfly species, making this a dynamic and demanding operation that requires consistency, care, and dedication.

This is a hands‑on farm position that involves daily responsibility for live animals and plants. Farm operations must be maintained every day, as lapses in care can result in loss of plant or animal life. This role is best suited for someone who is reliable, hardworking, and comfortable with physically demanding tasks in varying weather conditions.

Job Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Breeding and caring for butterflies at all life stages
• Collecting and preparing food for butterfly containers
• Sanitizing plastic containers used for pupae
• Greenhouse maintenance, including:
• Watering plants
• Weeding
• Cleaning and general upkeep
• Assisting with live butterfly farm tours, including:
• Greeting and signing in guests
• Educating visitors about the farm and butterfly life cycles
• Directing guests to appropriate locations

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This is not a glamorous job. It is a true working farm environment that involves:

• High humidity, heat, dirt, and exposure to outdoor conditions
• Repetitive physical tasks such as standing, bending, lifting, and carrying
• Direct contact with plants, insects, and organic materials
• Employees must be comfortable with exposure to plant sap, pollen, and natural plant residues
• Caterpillar frass (waste), shed skins, and insect secretions
• Cleaning and sanitizing agents, including diluted bleach solutions used for biosecurity
• Occasional strong odors associated with organic materials and sanitation

Proper training and safety procedures are provided, but applicants should be aware that this role involves close, daily contact with living systems.

Attendance & Reliability

We are understanding and lenient in cases of illness or emergencies. However, excessive or habitual absenteeism will result in termination. Reliability is essential to the success of our farm.

Desired Qualities

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate:

• Strong work ethic
• Leadership potential
• Ability to work well in a team
• Kindness and professionalism
• Clear and respectful communication

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• No felony convictions
• Background check required prior to interview
• Bilingual candidates are a plus

If you are someone who thrives in a hardworking farm environment and takes pride in caring for living systems, we encourage you to apply and become part of our long-standing butterfly farming operation.