Equine Caretaker

Job Description

The Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, a nationally recognized equine specialty hospital and part of the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, seeks a full-time Equine Caretaker to join our patient care team in Leesburg, Virginia. This position plays a critical role in supporting the health, comfort, and recovery of equine patients while working alongside veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary students in a dynamic clinical environment.

The successful candidate will provide daily husbandry and patient care support for hospitalized horses and research animals, assist with patient handling and grooming, maintain clean and safe barn facilities, and contribute to the exceptional standard of care for which the Equine Medical Center is known. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a world-class equine medical facility while making a direct impact on patient outcomes.

Required Qualifications

Demonstrated knowledge of equine husbandry; previous experience in restraining and handling horses safely and effectively; demonstrated experience in equine grooming techniques; ability to follow directions and established protocol and procedures. Must be able to safely move and handle up to 50 lbs. Must be 18 years old.

Preferred Qualifications

Education/training in animal care, animal science, or related area.

Pay Band

3 Salary

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

38,000 - 42,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

9/10/2026: posting will remain open until filled

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Sonya Kessler at skessler@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.