Splitrock Farm & Retreat is seeking passionate and reliable animal lovers to join our farm community as Farm Animal Caretakers. This is a farm stay exchange opportunity, ideal for those who love working with animals and want to experience sustainable farm life. In exchange for your help, you’ll enjoy a unique stay on our beautiful property, surrounded by nature and a welcoming community. In this integral role, you will be responsible for the daily care and well-being of our beloved farm animals, including 20+ goats, chickens, alpacas, sheep, pigs, cats, and guard dogs.
Commitment: 8-10 hours per week (approx. 60-90 minutes per day) for Farm Stay. Paid hours are additional to Farm Stay hours requirement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Daily feeding and fresh water for farm animals, including goats, chickens, alpacas, sheep, pigs, cats, and guard dogs.
- Bottle-feed baby goats and milk mama goats as needed.
- Clean and maintain animal enclosures, shelters, and surrounding areas.
- Monitor animal health and report concerns to camp host or management.
- Repair and maintain fences and enclosures for animal safety.
- Secure animals at night, ensuring baby goats are safely in their pen.
- Assist with general farm tasks and sustainability projects as needed.
- Lead and coordinate animal encounters with guests.*
Additional Opportunities for Paid Work:
- Animal Encounters & Events
- Lead engaging animal experiences for farm visitors*
- Assist with Baby Goat Yoga (wrangling goats before, during, and after sessions)
- Host private “petting zoo” parties for campers, locals, and youth groups
- Farm Product Sales & Animal Management
- Help with harvesting and producing farm products for sale (e.g., goat’s milk, cheese)
- Assist in selling livestock when necessary (e.g., male goats that shouldn’t breed)
- Farm & Retreat Support
- Assist camp hosts with campsite turnovers and cleaning when not on animal duty
Ideal Candidate:
- Loves animals and has experience in farm animal care (preferred).
- Enjoys hands-on, outdoor work in all seasons.
- Is responsible, can work independently, and commits to daily tasks.
- Has strong communication skills and enjoys interacting in a community setting.
- Is adaptable, reliable, and aligned with the farm’s mission of community and sustainable living.