At a Glance
- Tasks: Support farm operations and care for donkeys while maintaining high welfare standards.
- Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a global leader in animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, life assurance, and wellness perks like yoga classes.
- Other info: Flexible hours, great team culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of donkeys every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with large animals, tractor driving, and basic maintenance skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
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.
We have an excellent opportunity for a Farm Services Support Worker to join our team based at Weston farm.
You will provide daily practical operational support across the farm portfolio, supporting farm teams in effective farm operations through maintaining high standards of animal welfare, land management and infrastructure
About you
- Experience in large animal care, preferably equine.
- Experience in tractor driving and safe operation of farm machinery.
- Experience of carrying out practical tasks using hand tools and power tools to complete basic repairs and maintenance.
- Basic IT skills and use of handheld mobile devices and apps.
- UK full valid driving licence.
About the role
Your principal duties and responsibilities will include –
Farm Support through donkey care
- Provide Relief Farm Worker/Groom cover to include provision of donkey care and to operate farm machinery and equipment as required by the farm.
- Farm Services Support
- Assist with land management activities including spraying, fertilising and haymaking.
- Move various equipment and items between farm sites such as feeders, fencing machinery and hauling of materials.
- Dismantle, move, erect, and repair mobile field shelters across the farms.
- Maintain the recycling centre at Hurford's, ensuring it is kept clean, safe, and organised.
- Carry out ditch cleaning and other light general farm maintenance tasks eg. pressure washing, farm painting, and chainsaw activities as required.
- Carry out fencing work on direction of Farm Services Support Supervisor, transport materials and machinery, remove old and install new fencing.
- Prepare fencing areas for contractors and support clean-up as required.
- Other Services Support
- Assist with preparation and clean-up for farm events such as Donkey Week and Candlelight.
- On request support small capital projects.
What we offer in return
- Based at Weston – this is a full-time, permanent contract starting as soon as possible, working 37.5 hours per week, with flexibility to cover weekends when required.
- 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.
- Free parking.
- Subsidised restaurant and shop.
- 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.
Closing date for completed applications: Tuesday 25 August 2026.
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.
The Donkey Sanctuary also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme and, for relevant posts, may request information from applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.
Please note: The Guaranteed interview scheme is only applicable to candidates who consider themselves to have a disability applying for roles based within the United Kingdom.
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Farm Services Support Worker in Sidmouth employer: The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling opportunity for Groundworkers at our Weston farm location. With a strong commitment to animal welfare, we foster a supportive work culture that values teamwork and professional growth, providing employees with training opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of donkeys worldwide. Join us in a role where your skills will contribute to vital projects while enjoying a competitive salary and the satisfaction of working for a charity dedicated to improving animal welfare.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Services Support Worker in Sidmouth
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like The Donkey Sanctuary often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Services Support Worker in Sidmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what The Donkey Sanctuary does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Donkey Sanctuary
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with The Donkey Sanctuary will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at The Donkey Sanctuary.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with The Donkey Sanctuary.
