Zookeeper II - Swing

Lucky Ladd Farms, an award-winning agritourism destination in Middle Tennessee, is seeking an experienced Zoo Keeper II (Swing) to join our Animal Care team. This is a hands-on role for a serious animal care professional who wants to work with a diverse mixed collection and support a high-standard, guest-focused program.

As a Swing Keeper, you will be cross-trained and rotate through multiple sections (hoofstock and farm animals, small mammals, birds/aviary, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates), providing daily husbandry and helping deliver engaging guest experiences.

YOUR ROLE ON OUR TEAM:

• Perform daily husbandry: cleaning, disinfecting, feeding, watering, and monitoring animals
• Observe and report health and behavior changes; assist with basic veterinary procedures
• Implement enrichment and participate in operant conditioning/training sessions
• Maintain accurate records using AnimalCare software and paper logs
• 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 Keeper I and 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 two years of paid animal care experience in an AZA or ZAA accredited facility (or equivalent professional zoological/wildlife setting)
• Solid independent husbandry skills for at least one taxa group (e.g., hoofstock, small mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians), multi-species preferred.
• Experience with enrichment and exposure to positive-reinforcement training
• 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 annual salary based on experience: $35,360-$40,560 ($17.00-$19.50 equivalent)
• Free meal when you work a 6+ hour shift
• 401(k) with match
• Medical Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Life Insurance
• 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

SCHEDULE:

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

Pay: $35,360.00 - $40,560.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Experience:

• animal care at an AZA, ZAA, or similar accredited facility : 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person