Part-Time Barn Assistant and Back Up Educator

Organization

Cedar River Montessori School

Job Posted

January 26, 2026

Job status

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Erin Karnofski

Contact Email

erin@cedarrivermontessori.org

Deadline to Apply

Location

Renton, WA
United States
Keep our school's animal education program and barn home in good shape by caring for a mixed herd of pasture animals. This position is a key part of caring for seven farm animals, in addition to helping with minor construction projects and pasture maintenance. Solo work on the weekends + 1-2 day overlap with barn manager during the week. Other opportunities available based on experience and interest, including substitute outdoor ed / animal behavior teaching.

Summary

Part-time Barn Assistant for a rescue barn that serves as a forever home for previously neglected hoofstock. This position reports to the Barn Manager and works closely with the manager to provide care to goats, sheep, piglets, a cow, and an alpaca. Applicants must have a true passion and dedication to animal care, along with experience and comfort working solo with large animals. Part-time position working approximately 24 hours in total every Saturday and Sunday in addition to 1-2 other weekday, available for back-up care on some weekdays as needed, and working on some holidays. Serious, experienced applicants only.

Our community values the rich cultures, traditions, and ethnicities our families come from, and we are looking for diverse applicants who represent these backgrounds. Members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities are encouraged to apply.

Duties:

  • Clean and fill hay, grain, and water dishes
  • Pick up animal waste from pasture
  • Muck animal stalls and turn compost
  • Gather browse to give to animals and pick up and remove grazed browse
  • Monitor animal health, administer medication and supplements as needed
  • Assist with hoof trims and veterinary visits
  • Provide weekend and holiday indoor animal care to a turtle and fish
  • Independently follow established work flows and routine expectations
  • Note any changes to animal behavior and communicate to Barn Manager
  • Keep work space tidy and organized
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

  • Must have large animal experience and comfort in the management and direction of a herd
  • Degree and/or background in zoology, biology, animal sciences
  • At least 6 months to 1 year working in an animal care setting - preferably a zoo, wildlife park, barn, veterinary practice or animal shelter
  • Experience working with large hoofstock, performing basic wellness assessments as well as more advanced animal husbandry like administering medication and proper animal restraint
  • Familiarity with health and wellness expectations of various hoofstock: camelids, goats, sheep, cow, pigs
  • Detail-oriented and comfortable using power tools and doing minor carpentry
  • Able and motivated to work independently, following detailed work expectations
  • Knowledge of WA flora and fauna, including invasive and toxic species
  • Comfortable and ready to work outside all day, year round
  • Available to work holidays and come in for any unexpected animal emergencies or vet appointments (previously scheduled or emergent)
  • Reliable transportation
  • Clear background check

This position requires individuals who are reliable, hardworking, and have a genuine interest in working with animals. The ability to work independently as well as part of a team is essential. If you enjoy working outdoors and have a passion for animals, this role may be a great fit for you.

Experience:

  • Large animal handling: 1 year (required)

Ability to Commute:

  • Renton, WA 98058 (required)

Work Location: In person

About Us:

Located on 12 acres of forested wetland and pasture, Cedar River Montessori is an American Montessori Society accredited, independent, non-profit school for students ages 3 through 14 in Renton, WA. Cedar River Montessori students follow their natural interests as they explore their world, discovering the interconnectedness of personal responsibility, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Students learn how to work independently and collaboratively, experiencing a transformative education as they grow into the next generation of engaged, global thinkers who compassionately challenge the status quo. Founded in 1981, we strive to be a diverse and inclusive community.

To Apply: Send resume and letter of interest to erin@cedarrivermontessori.org

Compensation Information

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $20.00-24.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20-30 hours per week

Benefits:

  • Paid time off – employee is eligible to use paid sick and safe leave beginning on the 90th calendar day of employment. All employees accrue a minimum of one hour of paid sick and safe leave for every 40 hours worked. Employee can carry over 40 hours of sick leave to the following year.

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Every weekend
  • Holidays