Jobs - Balsam Mountain Trust

ABOUT BALSAM MOUNTAIN TRUST 
Balsam Mountain Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire people to be responsible stewards of the natural and cultural resources of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains through education and conservation leadership. The Trust is located in the heart of Balsam Mountain Preserve, a low density residential community encompassing more than 3,400 acres of permanently conserved land. Our Animal Ambassador Program is central to our mission and to the Western North Carolina community, delivering environmental education throughout Jackson and Haywood Counties. 

POSITION SUMMARY 
Balsam Mountain Trust seeks an experienced animal caretaker to support all aspects of our Animal Ambassador Program, including the daily husbandry, health, and welfare of our 16 animal ambassadors. Working under the direct supervision of the Wildlife Coordinator, the Assistant Wildlife Ambassador Caretaker helps deliver progressive, welfare-focused care to animals who serve one of the most important roles in our organization: connecting people with wildlife. This is an excellent opportunity to join a small, dedicated team committed to long-term welfare initiatives and exceptional animal care. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 
▪ Prepare diets and feed animal ambassadors according to established nutrition plans. 
▪ Observe and monitor the health, behavior, and general well-being of each animal, and promptly report concerns to the Wildlife Coordinator. 
▪ Maintain accurate, timely records of husbandry, health, training, and enrichment activities. 
▪ Clean, sanitize, and maintain animal habitats and support areas. 
▪ Conduct positive reinforcement–based training and participate in welfare assessments. 

▪ Plan, implement, and document enrichment programming. 
▪ Assist in preparing animals for off-site and external education programs. 

Additional Responsibilities (as assigned) 
▪ Assist with coordinating and supervising the animal care volunteer program. 
▪ Support the improvement and development of animal facilities. 
▪ Participate in environmental education outreach programs with animal ambassadors. 
▪ Perform other related duties as assigned. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 
▪ College coursework in zoology, biology, or a related field. 
▪ Two or more years of experience in an animal husbandry facility; experience with exotic species or in a zoo setting is preferred. 
▪ Strong oral and written communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. 
▪ Ability to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions, including snow, heat, humidity, and heavy rain. 
▪ A valid driver’s license and the ability to drive safely on mountain roads and terrain. 
▪ Availability to work weekends on a regular basis. 
▪ A current tetanus vaccination, or willingness to obtain one before beginning animal care duties.  
▪ Successful completion of a pre-employment background check. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 
▪ Ability to learn and safely operate power tools and maintenance equipment as needed. 
▪ Familiarity with animal care record-keeping software or similar systems.  
▪ Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications (e.g., Outlook, OneDrive). 

WHAT YOU BRING 
▪ Organization: You manage multiple priorities well and know what needs attention first. 
▪ Initiative: You solve problems proactively and anticipate issues before they arise. 
▪ Attention to detail: You take pride in accuracy, from diet preparation to record-keeping. 
▪ Teamwork: You bring a positive attitude and a willingness to help others. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT 
The physical demands and work environment described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

▪ Regularly stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb on uneven, steep, or slippery outdoor terrain. 
▪ Lift, carry, and move up to 50 pounds, including food, bedding, equipment, and animal transport crates. 
▪ Work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, snow, and rain. 
▪ Handle and work in close proximity to live animals, including animals that may bite, scratch, or otherwise cause injury. 
▪ Exposure to animal waste, cleaning and disinfecting agents, allergens, and potential zoonotic disease; personal protective equipment is provided and required where appropriate. 
▪ Drive Trust or personal vehicles on mountain roads, including off-site programs. 

COMPENSATION AND SCHEDULE 
This is a part-time, year-round, hourly (non-exempt) position, averaging 26 hours per week. Pay ranges from $17.00 to $19.25 per hour, based on experience. Weekend availability is required, and the schedule may vary based on animal care and program needs. Any hours worked over 40 in a workweek will be paid at one and one-half times the regular rate, in accordance with federal law. There may be an opportunity for this position to expand to full-time based on organizational needs and funding.