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- Tasks: Care for donkeys, mules, and hinnies while supporting farm operations.
- Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a global leader in animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, competitive pension, and wellness perks like yoga classes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal lives while working in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Must have good observation skills, communication abilities, and a valid UK driving licence.
- Other info: Full-time role with a 12-month contract, including weekend shifts.
The predicted salary is between 19900 - 23900 £ per year.
Farm Worker Groom
We have an excellent opportunity for a flexible and proactive individual with a passion for Donkeys to join our busy team at Slade House Farm, in Sidmouth, East Devon.
Position: Farm Worker / Groom (2106)
Location: Sidmouth
Hours: Part-time 15 hours per week
Salary: £9,585 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: Tuesday 16 December 2025
The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare organisation, offering care and protection to donkeys worldwide. Our vision is a world where every donkey has a good quality of life, and our mission is to improve the lives of donkeys every day. We will achieve this by transforming the lives of donkeys in need worldwide by fostering greater understanding, collaboration and support, and by promoting lasting, mutually life‑enhancing relationships.
Possessing excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills, you will provide care and rehabilitation for the resident donkeys and will support the Farm Manager in maintaining a safe working environment. As well as a working farm, Slade House Farm is a visitor attraction at the heart of The Donkey Sanctuary, and strong customer service skills are vital.
About you:
- Excellent observation skills to identify and notice signs that would indicate ill‑health in animals.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills – tactful and diplomatic when handling sensitive matters.
- Competent IT knowledge and skills.
- Willing to work outside in adverse weather conditions.
- Effective team player who builds trust and positive relationships.
- Self‑motivated, with a positive and professional attitude.
- UK full valid driving licence.
About the role:
Your principal duties and responsibilities will include:
- Routinely checking, feeding, grooming, weighing, worming and training the resident donkeys, mules, ponies and hinnies.
- Preparing and administering medications including intramuscular injections as directed.
- Assisting the veterinary surgeon, nurse, farrier and dental technician with examinations, routine treatments and welfare assessments.
- Making regular observation and wellbeing checks for any signs of infection, abnormality, illness or distress, and reporting animal health and welfare updates to the Farm Manager/Supervisor.
- Maintaining a safe and hygienic working environment in barns, stables, and all work areas, adhering to biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks.
- Maintaining farm security by regularly checking fences and ensuring gates and access to farm buildings are kept locked.
- Updating animal management records and medication logs.
What we offer in return:
Based in Sidmouth, Devon – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – this is a part‑time, permanent contract starting as soon as possible, working 15 hours per week, Monday‑Friday, with some weekend work as part of a rota.
Benefits:
- Competitive pension.
- Life assurance.
- 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service.
- Wellbeing team.
- Recorded Pilates and Yoga classes.
- Long service awards.
- Healthshield plan – reimbursement of some medical expenses up to the specified limits per membership.
- Offers, discounts and cashback on shopping, travel and entertainment from participating outlets.
- Access to a 24/7 GP and counselling service.
- Free parking.
- Subsidised restaurant and shop.
Closing date for completed applications: Tuesday 16 December 2025.
The Donkey Sanctuary is a Disability Confident Employer.
The Donkey Sanctuary is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults), and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post. #INDNFP
PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.
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Farm Worker Groom employer: NFP People Limited
Contact Detail:
NFP People Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Worker Groom
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs and behaviours of donkeys, mules, and hinnies. Understanding their care requirements will not only help you in the role but also show your genuine passion for these animals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of The Donkey Sanctuary or similar organisations. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when you meet the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your teamwork skills by sharing examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. This is crucial as the job requires effective communication and building trust within a team.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your experience with animal care and any relevant IT skills. Highlighting your ability to maintain records and communicate effectively will show that you're ready to support the Farm Manager efficiently.
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Worker Groom
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Farm Worker/Groom position. Highlight your passion for animal care, especially donkeys, in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant experience and skills that align with the job. Emphasise your observation skills, communication abilities, and any previous work with animals or in a farm environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation's mission. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to care for animals and work as part of a team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, double-check your application for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at NFP People Limited
✨Show Your Passion for Animals
Make sure to express your genuine love and passion for donkeys and animal care during the interview. Share any relevant experiences you have had with animals, especially donkeys, to demonstrate your commitment to their welfare.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
As a Farm Worker/Groom, you'll be part of a team. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment before. Emphasise your ability to build trust and positive relationships with colleagues.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
The role requires excellent observation skills and the ability to identify signs of ill-health in animals. Prepare to discuss situations where you've had to solve problems or make quick decisions regarding animal care.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your practical skills, such as handling machinery or performing daily farm tasks. Brush up on your knowledge of animal care routines and be ready to explain how you would approach various responsibilities outlined in the job description.
