Intern, Animal Care

***Application Deadline: July 17th, 2026 12 pm EST***

Job Description:

Summary: The Animal Care team is responsible for providing daily medical care and enrichment to our rescued residents. Animal Care interns are crucial members of a dedicated team helping provide exceptional care to the non-human animals of Farm Sanctuary. An Animal Care intern’s responsibilities can range from supporting caregivers in daily health treatments and feedings, as well as assisting with barn cleaning and grounds maintenance. They also receive opportunities to learn about veterinary-based care practices and ethical sanctuary-based research. All of these responsibilities are critical to providing lifesaving care and creating an environment for our residents to thrive. 

Responsibilities:

• Feeding residents in animal hospital and on the sanctuary grounds
• Monitoring wellness of animal hospital residents
• Cleaning cages, floors, and food and water bowls in hospital
• Assisting in daily enrichment activities
• Participating in animal health checks led by caregivers
• Washing scrubs, towels, and blankets used in the animal hospital
• Cleaning animal enclosures and giving fresh bedding for the animals
• Participating in larger grounds maintenance projects as needed, such as repairing fences, painting, and raking

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout sanctuary grounds. 
• Must be able to perform strenuous physical labor and lifting (up to 50 lbs regularly; team-lift heavier amounts regularly)
• Must be able to bend, lift, push, stoop, stretch, climb, and crawl and other strenuous  physical activities
• Must be able to regularly perform job responsibilities in a variety of weather conditions; almost all work is done in outdoor setting that is not climate-controlled

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing or interested in a career in animal care
• Be able to work independently
• Efficient time management skills
• Detail-oriented and ability to maintain good communication
• Ability to maintain a positive and respectful attitude

• Animal experience is preferred,  but not required
• Alignment with Farm Sanctuary’s values of compassion, understanding, integrity, transformation, and freedom
• Familiarity, commitment to, and experience with the practice of equity and social justice, and the principles embedded in Farm Sanctuary’s mission

Program Perks:

• Attend weekly Farm Sanctuary education workshops that include presentations, staff Q&As, documentary viewings, and hands-on learning opportunities
• Gain beneficial work experience in nonprofit employment, especially within vegan, animal rights, and sanctuary organizations
• Make strong professional connections and references
• Gain valuable insight about farmed animal care, rescue, and education

Specifications:

• Terms of employment: Full-time Temporary, non-exempt position
• Reports to: Intern Coordinator, Animal Care
• Location: Watkins Glen, NY
• Pay: $16.00 per hour

Accommodations: 

• Communal housing on sanctuary premises provided and preferred, but not required.
• Each intern is provided with a shared bedroom and a shared bathroom.
• Companion animals are not permitted.

Benefits: 

• Eligibility to participate in Farm Sanctuary’s medical insurance plan starting the second month of the internship

Additional Specifications: 

• This position requires a commitment of three months (September 1 through November 28)
• Valid driver’s license preferred.

Our Process:

• Stage 1 (July 20-25): 30-minute virtual HR screen
• Stage 2 (July 28-August 2): 30-minute video interview
• Stage 3 (August 5-August 9): Reference checks
• Stage 4 (By August 12): Job offer

Farm Sanctuary is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging. We work hard to provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We take our duty seriously to protect employees with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

We believe that our prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion is a strength and essential to achieving our mission. A diverse workforce brings many perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to more creative and effective solutions to our complex issues. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive environment, we foster a culture of belonging where innovation and growth can thrive. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization, including hiring and recruitment practices, employee development and training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are core components in fulfilling our mission of rescuing and protecting farmed animals from cruelty, and we are committed to creating a culture of respect, civility, and compassion for all.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Any photos or videos taken in the scope of employment and/or related to Farm Sanctuary are considered work product and intellectual property of Farm Sanctuary.