Animal Care Specialist

Position SummaryThe Animal Care Specialist is responsible for the daily care, health monitoring, and welfare of the animals at Jasper Ridge Farm. This role is central to JRF's mission: the animals in our care are partners in the therapeutic and educational experiences we provide, and their health, safety, and comfort are paramount.In addition to hands-on animal husbandry, the Animal Care Specialist supports the safe and effective facilitation of animal-assisted program activities, working alongside program staff to create enriching, calm, and well-managed interactions between animals and program participants. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced animal care professional to contribute their skills to meaningful community-based work.Key ResponsibilitiesAnimal Care & HusbandryProvide daily care for farm animals including feeding, watering, grooming, and habitat cleaning and maintenance according to established schedules and protocolsMonitor animals daily for signs of illness, injury, stress, or behavioral change and report concerns to the Executive Director and Animal Care Manager promptlyMaintain clean, safe, and enriching environments for all animals Administer medications and treatments, maintaining accurate health recordsImplement and evaluate enrichment activities and handling plans appropriate to each speciesCoordinate with the Executive Director and Animal Care Manager for routine and emergency animal health careMaintain accurate daily logs of animal health, behavior, feeding, and any incidentsProgram SupportPrepare animals for program activities, ensuring each animal is calm, healthy, and appropriate for participant interaction on a given dayFacilitate structured animal interactions with program participants including children, youth, and individuals with diverse needs, under the guidance of program staffEducate participants, visitors, and community members about the animals, their care, and the human-animal bond in an engaging and accessible mannerFollow all participant safety protocols and respond calmly and appropriately to any unexpected animal behavior during program activitiesFollow and help enforce all biosecurity protocols including handwashing requirements, zoonotic disease prevention, and client-animal contact guidelinesTeam & AdministrativeCollaborate closely with all staff and volunteersParticipate in staff meetings, trainings, and annual program planning as requestedMaintain accurate and timely records including animal health logs, incident reports and feeding schedulesSupport special events and seasonal programs including summer camp as neededQualificationsEducation High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in animal science, biology, veterinary technology, agriculture, or a related field preferredExperienceHands-on experience in animal care, farm management, veterinary support, zoo keeping, or a closely related fieldExperience working with a variety of species including large animals (horses, goats, sheep) and small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs) strongly preferredExperience in a therapeutic, educational, or nonprofit program setting a plusExperience working with youth or individuals with diverse needs and volunteers a plusInterpersonal SkillsAbility to work calmly and compassionately with diverse populations Comfortable facilitating structured animal interactions as part of a therapeutic or educational programStrong verbal communication skills; ability to share knowledge about animals in an engaging and accessible way with varied audiencesDemonstrated patience, empathy, and a compassionate approach to working with peoplePhysical & Operational RequirementsAbility to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, shoveling, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periodsComfortable working in a farm environment with ongoing exposure to animals, hay, dust, and manureAbility to work a flexible part-time schedule that will include weekend hours Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate written records consistentlyAbility to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a small teamPersonal QualitiesGenuine passion for animal welfare and the human-animal bondDeep alignment with JRF's mission of providing enriching experiences through animal-assisted programmingCalm, grounded, and observant demeanor with strong situational awarenessReliable, punctual, and proactive in identifying and addressing needsRespect for and sensitivity to the diverse communities JRF servesWork EnvironmentThis position is based at Jasper Ridge Farm in Portola Valley, California. The Animal Care Specialist works primarily outdoors in a farm environment. Work involves daily physical activity, exposure to animals and agricultural conditions, and regular interaction with program participants and community members. Some indoor administrative tasks are also required. Friday, Saturday and Sunday work is required for this position.How to ApplyTo apply, please submit the following to execdirector@jasperridgefarm.orgA resume or CV highlighting relevant animal care experienceA brief cover letter describing your background and your interest in JRF's mission