Animal Center Assistant

Overview

Located in Hershey, PA, Milton Hershey School (MHS) is a top‑notch home and school where over 2,000 pre‑K through 12th grade students from disadvantaged backgrounds receive an extraordinary cost‑free, career‑focused education. MHS seeks a full‑time Animal Center Assistant to support its Agricultural and Environmental Education (AEE) program. This role blends hands‑on animal care with educational programming, helping students experience agriculture through classroom instruction, extracurriculars, and work experiences.

AEE program includes cows, horses, goats, sheep, and rabbits. Pay ranges from $22.33 to $29.81 per hour and includes an excellent benefits package. Pay is determined based on experience.

• Collaborate with staff to design and deliver animal science and agricultural lessons
• Support instruction for students from Pre‑K to 12th grade
• Care for animals including sheep, goats, cattle, horses, rabbits, and other small animals
• Operate and maintain farm equipment (tractors, skid loaders, mowers, etc.)
• Maintain barns, fields, gardens, and other facilities
• Assist with crop‑related tasks and seasonal planting
• Build relationships with veterinarians, colleges, and agricultural organizations
• Lead student clubs and supervise internships (e.g., 4‑H, summer programs)

• High school diploma or GED required; bachelor’s in agriculture or animal science a plus
• Experience working with children and youth in educational settings a plus
• Passion for agriculture and environmental education
• Skilled in animal husbandry, feeding, and administering medications
• Experience with agricultural equipment and facility maintenance
• Ability to collaborate with veterinarians to ensure animal welfare
• Pesticide license is a plus
• Valid driver’s license with a clean record
• Strong communication and multitasking skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• High integrity and commitment to being a positive role model
• Eager to actively engage with students beyond the scope of the job responsibilities

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate against applicants or employees, in hiring, promotion or any terms or conditions of employment, on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion or religious creed, veteran status, disability or use of a guide or support animal because of the blindness, deafness or physical handicap of the user or because the user is a handler or trainer of support or guide animals, or any other status protected under applicable federal or Pennsylvania law.

Milton Hershey School does not discriminate in admissions or other programs and services on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, religious creed or disability. Read important MHS policies on equal opportunity and diversity, equal employment opportunity, and more.