Seasonal Barnyard Caretaker

Association Of Zoos & Aquariums; Alabama; On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Wildlife Attendant for their seasonal staff. This role involves ensuring the highest standards of animal care and engaging with guests to educate them about the animals. Responsibilities include observing animal health, preparing food, and maintaining safety protocols. The ideal candidate will be flexible, motivated, and possess strong communication skills. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment while contributing to wildlife conservation efforts. Join a team that values diversity and inclusion, and enjoy perks like free zoo membership and discounts.

Benefits

Free zoo membership

40% discount in Restaurant and Gift Shop

Sick leave

Vet and vehicle services at cost

Free animal encounters

Employee parties throughout the year

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of animal experience through extracurricular activities or professional work.
• Good physical health; able to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Provide friendly and engaging customer service to guests.
• Observe animals for signs of illness or injury.
• Prepare food according to dietary requirements.

Skills

Animal Care

Customer Service

Public Speaking

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, Certified Related Facilities, Commercial Members, Conservation Partners, and Society Partners may post free unlimited online job listings as a member benefit. Non-members can purchase job listings. How to post a job

Interested in a career in AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums? Learn more about types of zoo and aquarium jobs and relevant education programs in our career center.

Wildlife Safari

Wildlife Safari boasts over 600 acres with a 4.5 mile drive-thru and a free Village Walkabout.

This is a full-time seasonal staff position responsible for the daily animal husbandry of the Barnyard. The Attendant will work independently and in a team environment to apply the highest standards of animal care, enrichment, and training. They will also interact with the public to educate them about the collection and provide guidelines for ambassador interaction. The Attendant works closely with the Village staff and reports directly to the Village Supervisor and Lead to maintain animals’ good health and well-being.

The Barnyard houses several species of livestock and native animals including sheep, goats, miniature horse and donkey, chickens, pot-bellied pig, and barn owls. The contact yard allows guests to interact with goats and sheep. The Village is expanding, and assistance with the new Reptile House may be included in future responsibilities.

• Provide friendly and engaging customer service to guests and outline contact yard rules to ensure safety.
• Observe animals for signs of illness or injury and report issues to the Supervisor or Lead.
• Prepare food according to dietary requirements.
• Follow department or species-specific protocols to ensure safety.
• Maintain accurate records as required.
• Participate in zoo activities and events, such as shows and fundraisers.
• Respond to emergencies to ensure guest and animal safety.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• 1-2 years of animal experience through extracurricular activities or professional work.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Good physical health; able to bend, stoop, crawl, walk on uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Able to endure extreme weather conditions.
• Pass a drug test (including marijuana) and annual tuberculosis tests.
• Agree to a background check.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Available to work weekends and holidays.
• Flexible, motivated, good communicator, and team-oriented.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with livestock.
• Strong public speaking skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to take independent initiative within guidelines.

Timeline and Wages

Start: May 2025 End: Late September 2025

Dates are somewhat flexible.

Wage: $14.00/hour, full-time (32-40 hours/week).

• Free zoo membership with reciprocal privileges.
• 40% discount in Restaurant and Gift Shop.
• Sick leave.
• Vet and vehicle services at cost.
• Free animal encounters.
• Employee parties throughout the year.

Wildlife Safari is a drug-free workplace; applicants must pass a drug screen prior to employment.

Wildlife Safari is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion, and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

Experience Required

Employee discount and free membership.

Wage: $14.00/hour, seasonal.

How to Apply

To Apply

Send a cover letter, resume, and three references to [e-mail]. Applications accepted until the position is filled.

Wildlife Safari
1790 Safari Road, P.O. Box 1600
Winston, OR 97496
Phone: [phone]