What are the responsibilities and job description for the Zookeeper II - Swing position at Lucky Ladd Farms Inc.?
JOB DESCRIPTION
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
Salary : $35,360 - $40,560