Zookeeper II - Swing

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.

• 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 Animal Care 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

• Bachelor's degree in animal science, zoology, life science, or similar field preferred.
• At least 2 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.

• 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

• Variable swing schedule with weekend and holiday requirements
• On call rotation for after hours animal emergencies

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