Animal Caretaker I

Position Title:

Animal Caretaker I

Job Group:

Merit

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to read, write, and follow instructions. • Possession of a valid state or commercial driver's license, as required.

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University is seeking a Large Animal Caretaker to support the daily operations of our large animal facilities. This position is key to ensuring our facilities remain clean, safe, and fully supportive of teaching, research, and clinical activities. You will work with a variety of large animals, including horses, cattle, swine, and small ruminants such as sheep and goats.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide care for large animals, including feeding, watering, grooming, and monitoring health through daily observation.

• Assist with veterinary procedures and animal restraint during clinical treatments and educational demonstrations.

• Maintain animal facilities, ensuring enclosures, equipment, and environments are clean and sanitary while following biosecurity protocols.

• Transport animals and supplies within the facility and assist with facility upkeep and minor repairs.

• Monitor and report on animal health status, including any signs of illness, injury, or stress, to supervisors and veterinary staff.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Full-time position with rotating shifts. You’ll work on-site, caring for animals in various weather conditions and physical environments.

• Shifts: Shift schedules will vary based on operational needs and may include evenings, weekends, and on call responsibilities

• Experience with livestock handling and biosecurity practices is preferred, but not required. Training will be provided as needed.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a team supporting teaching, research, and clinical care in veterinary medicine

• Gain hands-on experience working with large animals

• Contribute to a mission focused on animal health, safety, and welfare

• Training provided for candidates eager to learn

About the College of Veterinary Medicine:

The Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine is at the forefront of veterinary education, clinical care, and research. As part of our team, you’ll work in a cutting-edge environment where animal health, student education, and scientific advancements are prioritized. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the welfare of animals and the future of veterinary medicine.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience handling large animals such as horses, cattle, or sheep.

• Experience working in a veterinary setting.

• Experience cleaning or familiarity with biosecurity.

• Experience handling or restraining large animals.

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Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

7611a

Original Posting Date:

May 21, 2026

Posting Close Date:

June 3, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19291

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

 

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.