Animal-Assisted Therapy Technician

Position Title: Farm Hand Location: Taft, TN
Reports To: Clinical Director Position Summary: The Farm Hand will play a crucial role in the care and maintenance of goats and bunnies on the facility's farm, contributing to the agricultural therapy program. This position involves daily responsibilities for the health and welfare of the animals, as well as teaching staff and patients about proper livestock care. The Farm Hand will collaborate with the clinical team to help develop curriculum and activities centered around animal-assisted therapy, fostering both educational and therapeutic experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Animal Care and Maintenance:
• Provide comprehensive care for goats and bunnies, including feeding, grooming, and providing veterinary care as needed.
• Maintain clean and safe enclosures, ensuring appropriate living conditions for all livestock.
• Monitor the health and behavior of animals, reporting any concerns to veterinary staff or management promptly.
• Teaching and Training:
• Educate staff and patients on proper care techniques for goats and bunnies including feeding schedules, handling practices, and health monitoring.
• Lead training sessions for staff and patients involved in the agricultural therapy program, promoting understanding and appreciation of animal husbandry.
• Curriculum Development:
• Collaborate with the clinical team to design and implement a curriculum focused on agricultural therapy, integrating animal care activities into therapeutic practices.
• Develop educational resources and materials on livestock care and the benefits of agricultural therapy for use in group sessions and individual therapy.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate records of animal health, care routines, and interactions with patients and staff.
• Document educational sessions and patient involvement in animal care for evaluation and planning purposes.
• Safety and Compliance:
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations related to animal care and farm activities.
• Promote a safe and positive environment for both animals and individuals interacting with them, addressing any safety concerns immediately.
• Collaboration:
• Work closely with the therapeutic team to monitor patient progress and engagement in the agricultural therapy program.
• Participate in team meetings to discuss program development, share insights on animal interaction, and contribute to the overall goals of the therapy initiatives.
• Education:
• High school diploma or equivalent; relevant experience in animal care, agriculture, or a related field preferred.
• Experience:
• Experience working with farm animals, particularly goats and bunnies; knowledge of animal husbandry and care practices.
• Previous experience in a therapeutic, educational, or similar role is a plus.
• Skills:
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging effectively with staff and patients.
• Ability to teach and demonstrate animal care techniques in a clear and approachable manner.
• Organizational skills to maintain records and contribute to program documentation.
• Personal Qualities:
• Compassionate and patient individual with a passion for animal care and education.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team within a therapeutic environment.

Working Conditions:

• This position requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and may involve physical tasks such as lifting, bending, and manual labor associated with animal care.
• Flexible hours may be necessary, including weekends, to ensure the animals are adequately cared for.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 5 – 15 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $20