Breeder

Position Type:
On-site | Full Time | Labor-intensive | Year-round

Butterfly Dans is one of the oldest butterfly farms in the world. We specialize in breeding butterflies for museums, exhibits, conservatories, schools, and special events. Depending on the season, we maintain and breed between 12–17 butterfly species, making this a dynamic and demanding operation that requires consistency, care, and dedication.

This is a hands‑on farm position that involves daily responsibility for live animals and plants. Farm operations must be maintained every day, as lapses in care can result in loss of plant or animal life. This role is best suited for someone who is reliable, hardworking, and comfortable with physically demanding tasks in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Breeding and caring for butterflies at all life stages
• Collecting and preparing food for butterfly containers
• Sanitizing plastic containers used for pupae
• Greenhouse maintenance, including:
• Watering plants
• Weeding
• Cleaning and general upkeep
• Assisting with live butterfly farm tours, including:
• Greeting and signing in guests
• Educating visitors about the farm and butterfly life cycles
• Directing guests to appropriate locations

This is not a glamorous job. It is a true working farm environment that involves:

• High humidity, heat, dirt, and exposure to outdoor conditions
• Repetitive physical tasks such as standing, bending, lifting, and carrying
• Direct contact with plants, insects, and organic materials
• Employees must be comfortable with exposure to plant sap, pollen, and natural plant residues
• Caterpillar frass (waste), shed skins, and insect secretions
• Cleaning and sanitizing agents, including diluted bleach solutions used for biosecurity
• Occasional strong odors associated with organic materials and sanitation

Proper training and safety procedures are provided, but applicants should be aware that this role involves close, daily contact with living systems.

We are understanding and lenient in cases of illness or emergencies. However, excessive or habitual absenteeism will result in termination. Reliability is essential to the success of our farm.

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate:

• Strong work ethic
• Leadership potential
• Ability to work well in a team
• Kindness and professionalism
• Clear and respectful communication

• High school diploma or GED required
• No felony convictions
• Background check required prior to interview
• Bilingual candidates are a plus

If you are someone who thrives in a hardworking farm environment and takes pride in caring for living systems, we encourage you to apply and become part of our long-standing butterfly farming operation.