Job Description

Position:

Animal & Livestock Caretaker

Location:

Midland, ON

Employment Type:

Seasonal (with potential to work during the winter)

Wage:

$19-$22/hour depending on experience

About the Role:

We're hiring a reliable, hardworking Animal & Livestock Caretaker to join our team at a public-facing, education-driven farm. Our animals live outdoors year-round and are part of small-group programming like summer camps, private tours, and school visits.

This role is for someone who understands the discipline, detail, and stamina it takes to care for a working herd in all conditions. You'll work closely with a range of livestock--goats, sheep, pigs, cows with horns, alpacas, and horses etc--supporting their care, safety, and training across the seasons. While horse handling and riding is an asset, this is not a horse-only position. Strong, confident livestock experience is essential.

You'll report to our

Animal Care Manager

and play a key role in animal routines, enrichment, and supporting a farm experience that meets high operational standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Support the Animal Care Manager with daily livestock care and safety routines Feed, water, and observe animals, identifying changes in behavior or health Clean and maintain outdoor paddocks, shelters, gates, and equipment Assist in training animals for public interaction and handling Prepare animals and spaces for educational programming and farm events Follow structured care protocols and uphold high standards of welfare and presentation Work outdoors in all weather and support emergency response or on-call situations as needed Contribute to herd development, animal training, enrichment ideas, and team culture

What We're Looking For:

2-3 years of real livestock experience

(e.g., cows, goats, sheep, pigs--not just horse or pet care) Comfortable working around large animals, including horned cattle and assertive breeds Physically strong and capable of working long, outdoor shifts in all seasons High attention to detail and commitment to following protocols Experience in environments where presentation, timing, and public interaction matter Calm and confident around animals; comfortable around children and families A mindset for quality, consistency, and team accountability Experience working with, training, or riding horses is a strong asset (but not the core of this role) Valid G license, reliable transportation, and willingness to complete a criminal record check Will work weekends, early mornings, holidays, and occasional on-call needs

Hours and employment may vary seasonally depending on animal care needs and public programming

Bonus Assets:

Experience on high-standard or urban farms (e.g., city education farms, therapeutic barns, or guest-facing properties) Knowledge of livestock enrichment or public desensitization techniques Carpentry, fencing, or small equipment (ATV, tractor) operation Animal or human First Aid
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00-$22.00 per hour

Flexible language requirement:

French not required
Schedule:

Holidays Monday to Friday On call Weekends as needed
Education:

Secondary School (required)
Location:

Midland, ON (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2025-07-04