Paterson: Senior Animal Caretaker

This organisation is a leading force in conservation, focused on the rescue, veterinary care, and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife, with the ultimate goal of returning animals to their natural habitat through a carefully managed, hands-off approach. They are looking for a passionate, disciplined individual who is highly organised, able to follow strict protocols, and confident in both animal care support and guest engagement, with the ability to balance hands-on operational duties with education and conservation awareness. Candidate Responsibilities: Support animal care and rehabilitation while maintaining a strict non-contact approach to encourage successful release back into the wild. Observe animal behaviour closely and communicate any concerns to senior staff or management. Carefully follow all animal care guidelines and treatment instructions, both written and verbal. Lead informative presentations and guided experiences for guests and volunteers. Uphold all safety standards, animal welfare practices, and organisational procedures. Maintain cleanliness of enclosures, feeding tools, and the education facility. Exhibit strong organisational ability and effective time management in daily tasks. Core Criteria: Matric Minimum 1 year experience working in wildlife rehabilitation or animal husbandry Valid drivers license Tertiary education in related field (advantageous) Proficient in English (isiXhosa or Afrikaans beneficial) Passion for wildlife and environmental education Knowledge and understanding of wildlife behaviour and welfare principles Must be comfortable speaking in public settings Physically fit Strong communication and interpersonal skills High level of responsibility, accountability, and attention to detail This is a live-in position Work cycle: 3 weeks on/1 week off