Farm Worker/Groomer needed at The Donkey Sanctuary
Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a globally respected animal welfare organization, as a Farm Worker/Groomer at Brookfield Farm. In this hands-on, full-time role, you’ll care for rescued donkeys, mules, and hinnies—providing daily feeding, grooming, and support with veterinary treatments. If you’re passionate about animal welfare and ready to work outdoors in all weather, this is your chance to make a real difference.
About the Role
As a Farm Worker/Groom, you will be responsible for the daily care, feeding, and rehabilitation of donkeys and related animals. You’ll also support the farm’s operations, assist vets and farriers, and help maintain a safe and clean environment.
This is a full-time, 12-month fixed-term position based in Honiton, Devon, UK, with a schedule of 37.5 hours per week (5 days over 7, including weekends).
Why Work With The Donkey Sanctuary?
Meaningful Work in Animal Welfare
- Directly impact the lives and wellbeing of donkeys and mules
- Work with a passionate team in a mission-driven organization
- Contribute to a world where every donkey has a good quality of life
Stable Employment & Supportive Team
- Full-time, 12-month fixed-term contract
- Team rota includes weekend shifts with clear structure
- On-site role with varied tasks and room to learn
Generous Benefits Package
- £23,962 annual salary
- 31 days holiday (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 34
- Competitive pension and life assurance
- Healthshield plan – partial reimbursement for medical expenses
- Access to 24/7 GP and counselling service
- Free parking, subsidised restaurant and shop
- Long-service awards, yoga/Pilates sessions, and wellbeing team support
Job Overview
| Job Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Category | Animal Welfare, Farm Work, Equine Care |
| Location | Brookfield Farm, Honiton, Devon, EX14 9SU, UK |
| Job Type | Full-Time, Fixed-Term (12 months) |
| Start Date | As soon as possible |
| Salary | £23,962 per annum |
| Schedule | 37.5 hours/week (5 days over 7, incl. weekends) |
| Setting | On-site |
| Vacancy Reference | 1987 |
Qualifications & Skills
We’re looking for candidates who:
- Have excellent observation skills to detect signs of animal illness
- Communicate professionally and diplomatically
- Are competent with basic IT systems
- Hold a full valid UK driving licence
- Are comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Are team players, self-motivated, and dependable
Key Responsibilities
Your duties will include:
- Feeding, grooming, worming, training, and medicating donkeys, mules, and hinnies
- Assisting vets, farriers, and dentists during visits
- Mucking out barns, feeding, distributing hay and bedding
- Performing farm maintenance (e.g., pressure washing, compost management)
- Maintaining accurate written records on animal care and farm routines
- Reporting regularly to the Farm Manager and Supervisor
Work Environment & Conditions
- Physically active, outdoor-based work
- Involves lifting, bending, and operating equipment
- Exposure to varied weather conditions
- Team-based environment with structured communication
- A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required
How to Apply
If you’re passionate about animal welfare and ready to work outdoors in all weather, this is your chance to make a real difference.
Application Deadline: Sunday, 3 August 2025
Location: Brookfield Farm, Farway Common Road, Honiton, Devon, EX14 9SU
Apply via The Donkey Sanctuary website
Important Note:
Please complete your application in your own words. Applications using AI-generated content may not be considered for interview.
The Donkey Sanctuary Is:
- A Disability Confident Employer
- Committed to safeguarding vulnerable people
- A participant in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme
Start a career where care, compassion, and dedication truly matter.
Apply now and become a vital part of the mission at The Donkey Sanctuary.
