Who is the ideal candidate?
You have a deep respect for animals, agriculture, and heritage. You thrive in the calm, grounding rhythm of early mornings on the farm and take immense pride in the health and daily care of the animals. You understand that true quality in farming begins with a genuine intuition for animal behavior, and maintaining a spotless kraal to welcoming curious visitors. You work seamlessly with your team and take absolute ownership, delivering consistently exceptional care day in and day out.
Requirements & Skills:
- Prior hands-on experience in livestock handling and care (specifically cattle, oxen, and farm animals) within the kraal and surrounding farmyard.
- A solid understanding of basic animal behavior, health, and general farm safety practices.
- As Soetmelksvlei is a popular heritage destination, you will frequently interact with guests, answering their questions about the animals, and 19th-century farming traditions in a warm, informative manner.
- Assist with scheduled kraal tours, and interactive animal presentations when required.
- A friendly, patient, and approachable demeanor with strong interpersonal skills.
- Clear and effective communication skills in English and Afrikaans.
Main Responsibilities & Duties:
- Daily animal care, manage the routine feeding, watering, and general upkeep of all kraal residents, including our cattle, donkeys, and Chianina oxen.
- Monitor the health and well-being of the animals on an ongoing basis, promptly reporting any injuries, illness, or unusual behavior to management.
- Maintain a high standard of cleanliness in the kraal, stables, and immediate farmyard areas.
- Inspect and ensure that all fences, gates, and equipment in and around the kraal remain safe and in good working order.
- Assist with the safe handling and movement of animals for daily farm routines, educational schedules, or experiences like ox-wagon rides.
- Perform additional farm-related tasks as requested by management, always respecting the traditional methods and historical integrity of the estate.
Why Soetmelksvlei?
At Soetmelksvlei, you won’t simply work with animals, you will become part of a living 19th-century heritage farm where history, craftsmanship, and agriculture unite. Here, you will work alongside majestic Chianina oxen, heritage livestock, and traditional methods rarely preserved at scale. You'll be part of a passionate team that values animal welfare and takes pride in authentic farm life. The role involves active, hands-on outdoor work, and requires the ability to perform physical tasks across varying weather conditions.
If you are a committed Kraal & Livestock Caretaker ready to honor the rhythm of traditional farming, we look forward to hearing from you.