Zookeeper I - Swing

Lucky Ladd Farms, an award-winning agritourism destination in Middle Tennessee, is hiring an Animal Keeper I (Swing) to join our Animal Care team. This is a great opportunity for early-career keepers who are serious about animal welfare and want to gain broad experience with a mixed collection in a professional, guest-facing setting.

As a Swing Keeper, you'll be cross-trained and rotate through multiple areas (hoofstock and farm animals, small mammals, birds/aviary, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates), providing daily husbandry and supporting interactive, educational guest experiences.

YOUR ROLE ON OUR TEAM:

• Perform daily husbandry: cleaning, disinfecting, feeding, watering, and monitoring animals
• Observe and report changes in health and behavior to senior staff
• Implement established enrichment plans and participate in basic training sessions as directed
• Complete daily logs and checklists accurately and on time
• Follow all SOPs to ensure USDA and TWRA compliance, and plan for ZAA accreditation
• Supervise guest-animal interactions in encounter areas; provide scheduled keeper talks
• Help mentor seasonal staff in assigned areas

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES HAVE THESE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar field preferred.
• At least one year of work experience at a zoological facility, wildlife rehab, or similar professional setting
• Basic knowledge of animal husbandry and behavior for at least one taxa group (e.g., hoofstock, small mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians), multi-species preferred.
• Excellent observational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Passion for animal welfare and a commitment to maintaining high standards of care
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing on your feet for extended periods of time, bending, stooping, and extending oneself
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Willing and able to work a variable swing schedule, including weekends and holidays
• Proof of current rabies vaccination, or willingness to be vaccinated, at LLF expense.

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM:

• Competitive hourly based on experience: $15.00-$17.00
• Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift
• Paid Professional Development
• Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift
• Unlimited admission for you and 5 guests
• Discounts on dining and merchandise
• Annual team member appreciation event
• Employee referral bonus program
• Work shirt, work boots, and name badge provided
• Opportunity for advancement after one year with additional benefits including Medical Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401(k) with matching.

SCHEDULE:

• Variable swing schedule with weekend and holiday requirements
• On call rotation for after hours animal emergencies

Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance

Experience:

• paid professional animal care: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person