Draft Animal Coordinator

Draft Animal Coordinator

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill (SVPH) is on a mission to inspire generations through discovery, sharing the legacies of the Kentucky Shakers. SVPH combines historic preservation, land conservation, engaged learning, and warm hospitality to create an unrivaled destination experience.

Hourly, full‑time. Reports to Farm Manager. Approved by President/CEO.

• Daily care: feeding, watering, health checks, and coordinating veterinary support.
• Animal training: use positive reinforcement to train horses, oxen, and mules for tasks such as transportation, plowing, mowing, logging, and hauling.
• Health and welfare: monitor health, provide grooming, ensure access to pasture or exercise areas.
• Operations: manage fencing, livestock movement, and stall/pen cleaning.
• Equipment: inventory, maintain, and use necessary draft‑animal equipment.
• Safety: implement safety protocols and maintain biosecurity.
• Public engagement: serve as a draft‑animal ambassador to guests and the wider community.
• Village collaboration: work with marketing, public relations, and programs teams to create draft‑animal programming and interpretive opportunities.
• External collaboration: collaborate with veterinary technicians and outside farm technicians.

• Animal handling: expertise with large animals, understanding behavior, body language, and safe handling.
• Animal husbandry: knowledge of nutrition, health, and welfare.
• Farm operations: understanding of sustainable agriculture practices involving draft animals.
• Business management: manage costs and explore potential income streams from draft‑animal activities.
• Public speaking and writing: capacity to address audiences and produce blog posts, essays, and grant proposals.

• High school diploma required.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience working with and training draft animals for agricultural engagement.
• Must pass a criminal record background check and reference confirmations.

• Ability to stand for long periods.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Excellent manual dexterity.
• Comfortable and skilled with working with animals.

• Exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; frequently outdoors.
• Requires flexible schedule, including weekdays, weekends, evenings, and some holidays.
• Available for any shift as needed.