JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Small Animal Petting Sessions Handler /Presenter
(KMBC School Holidays)
EMPLOYER: Acorn Venture Association
LOCATION OF WORKPLACE: Acorn Farm
Depot Road
Kirkby
Merseyside
L33 3AR
RESPONSIBLE TO: Directly to the Farm Manager
RESPONSIBLE FOR: Running the “hands-on” small animal petting sessions at Acorn Farm.

JOB DESCRIPTION

This job description is a guide to the work you will be required to undertake and represents a range of responsibilities commensurate with the grade for the post. All jobs are subject to change from time to time and this job description will be reviewed regularly.

EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS

• Good standard of written and spoken English (GCSE Level English Language or Equivalent) Essential/Application Form
• NVQ in Animal Care Desirable/Application Form

EXPERIENCE

• Proven animal handling experience Essential/Application Form/interview
• Working with children Essential/Application Form/interview
• Working with people with disabilities Desirable/Application Form
• Working with the general public Desirable/Application Form

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES

• Good working knowledge of animals Essential/Interview
• Excellent communication skills Essential/Interview
• Flexible approach to work Essential/Interview
• Ability to work as part of a team Essential/Interview
• Ability to work on own initiative, organise and plan work load Essential/Interview
• Understanding and awareness of equal opportunities principles Essential/Interview
• Positive approach towards people with learning disabilities and/or mental health problems Essential/Interview
• First Aid at Work Certificate Desirable/Application Form
• Manual Handling Certificate Desirable/Application Form
  Job Type: Permanent
  Pay: £12.85 per hour

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability

Experience:

• small animal handling: 1 year (required)
• Customer service: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 09/05/2025
Expected start date: 27/05/202

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensuring all animals needed for the petting sessions are brought to the pavilion.
• Ensuring all animals have sufficient food, water and bedding for the time they will spend in the area
• Checking entrance tickets and admitting visitors to the pavilion.
• Giving an introductory talk to include:-

• Health and Safety Issues

• Animal Welfare Issues

• Introducing each animal group including fun facts about each animal, information on handling, what they eat, age, lifespan, personality etc.

• Allowing visitors to handle, stroke, feed and groom the animals.
• Answering questions on the animals.
• Returning all animals to their night time fields at the end of the day.
• Cleaning pens, hutches as needed.
• Keeping the inside and outside of the petting area clean, tidy and free from hazards.
• Informing the Animal Supervisor immediately of any animal health issues.
• Completing the link book
• Supervising volunteers
• At end of the day assisting the Animal Supervisor with general site duties e.g. putting animals away, litter picking, etc.
• Maintaining appropriate Health & Safety standards by following the Policies and Procedures as detailed in the Health & Safety Manual, Health & Safety Guidance Notes and Employee Safety Handbook, to include all relevant Risk Assessments, Hazard Reporting and use of correct PPE by staff and trainees.
• Safeguarding the property of the Association as entrusted to your care.

In addition to the responsibilities listed, the post holder is required to perform any reasonable duties that may be requested from time to time.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES:

To attend relevant training, staff supervision and staff development reviews.