Volunteer Livestock Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description

About Hildene 

Hildene is more than a historic home. It is a place where history, agriculture, conservation, and education intersect. Situated on more than 400 acres in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Hildene welcomes visitors to explore the legacy of the Lincoln family while experiencing a working farm, restored landscapes, forests, gardens, and educational programs that inspire stewardship of both our past and our future. 

Our farm is an essential part of that mission. We believe agriculture connects people to the land, to one another, and to the enduring values of responsibility, resilience, and community. 

Position Summary 

Hildene seeks an energetic, knowledgeable, and mission-driven Livestock Manager & Educator to oversee the daily care and management of our livestock while creating meaningful educational experiences for visitors of all ages. 

This is an exceptional opportunity for someone who loves animals, enjoys working outdoors, and is excited to share the story of sustainable agriculture with thousands of visitors each year. The successful candidate will combine excellent animal husbandry with a passion for teaching, public engagement, and stewardship. 

Responsibilities 

  Livestock Management 

• Oversee the health, welfare, and daily care of Hildene's livestock. 
• Manage feeding, breeding, lambing, shearing, hoof care, vaccinations, and preventative health programs. 
• Monitor animal behavior and coordinate veterinary care as needed. 
• Maintain pastures, fencing, shelters, and livestock facilities. 
• Keep accurate animal health and breeding records. 
• Coordinate seasonal farm activities and ensure compliance with animal welfare and agricultural best practices. 

  Education & Visitor Engagement 

• Welcome visitors and interpret Hildene's agricultural mission. 
• Develop and present engaging educational programs for school groups, families, and adults. 
• Lead farm tours, demonstrations, and hands-on learning experiences. 
• Help visitors understand the connection between agriculture, conservation, and the Lincoln family's legacy. 
• Work collaboratively with Hildene's education and visitor experience teams to create memorable programs throughout the year. 

  Leadership & Collaboration 

• Supervise and mentor farm assistants, interns, and volunteers. 
• Work closely with Hildene staff across departments to support public events and educational initiatives. 
• Assist with planning for seasonal programming and special events. 
• Help foster a welcoming, collaborative culture centered on learning and stewardship. 

Qualifications - 

• Experience managing livestock, preferably cows, sheep and other small ruminants. 
• Knowledge of pasture management, rotational grazing, and sustainable agricultural practices. 
• Strong animal husbandry and livestock health skills. 
• Experience teaching, interpreting, or engaging the public is highly desirable. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team. 
• Comfortable working outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions. 
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and perform physically demanding farm work. 
• Valid driver's license. 

Desired Qualities 

We are looking for someone who is: 

• Passionate about agriculture and animal welfare. 
• Curious, engaging, and enthusiastic about teaching a range of livestock-based subjects to visitors of all ages and learning types. 
• Organized, dependable, and attentive to detail. 
• Capable of working thoughtfully and collaboratively in a busy organization.  
• A deft problem solver who takes initiative. 
• Committed to conservation, sustainability, and lifelong learning. 
• Excited to help visitors connect with the land and understand why agriculture matters. 

Why Hildene? 

Working at Hildene offers the rare opportunity to steward a living farm within one of Vermont's most treasured historic landscapes. Every day presents an opportunity to care for animals, cultivate the land, inspire visitors, and help preserve an extraordinary place where history and agriculture continue to shape one another. 

If you believe that farms are classrooms, that good stewardship enriches communities, and that meaningful work leaves a lasting legacy, we encourage you to apply. 

To Apply 

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references. Applications will be reviewed as they are received until the position is filled. 

Annual Salary - $60,000