Application Deadline: August 15, 2025 12 p.m. EST
Please submit applications at farmsanctuary.org/internships
Applications for the listed position only will be accepted
Summary: The Hospitality and Retail Intern will gain hands-on experience in customer service, retail operations and event support while contributing to the organization's mission.
Responsibilities:
Retail
Welcome and engage visitors, offering information and wayfinding assistance.
Assist with the opening and closing of the sanctuary shop
Assist with inventory management including restocking, receiving product, ticketing, and visual merchandising
Assist with sales transactions, provide excellent customer service including product recommendations.
Assist with identifying and sourcing local artisanal offerings.
Maintain cleanliness and organization in the shop and visitor areas.
Provide feedback and input on top selling and slow selling merchandise as well as other customer insights.
Assist with running weekly sales and inventory reports
Bed & Breakfast
Assist with guest check-in and check-out and provide warm and welcoming hospitality
Support housekeeping tasks, including room setup and replenishing amenities.
Address guest inquiries and provide information about Farm Sanctuary mission and local attractions
Support onsite manager with weekly guest check-in report to coordinate with housekeeping and cafe manager.
Assist Sanctuary Guides with public and private tours.
Assist with checking in tour visitors and event attendees
Preferred Qualifications:
Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
Professional and gracious in high-volume situations
Knowledge of farmed animal and vegan issues
Effective communication, public speaking, and outreach skills with various audiences
Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment
Efficient organizational skills and attention to detail
Team player and collaboration skills when working with colleagues
Willingness and ability to perform physical labor and moderate lifting
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record, preferred
Alignment with Farm Sanctuary’s values of compassion, understanding, integrity, transformation, and freedom.
Familiarity, commitment to, and experience with the practice of equity and social justice, and the principles embedded in Farm Sanctuary’s mission
We embrace candidates from a range of backgrounds and experiences, regardless of whether they satisfy all the specified requirements. We encourage you to apply, even if you have an unconventional or non-traditional background
Job Specifications:
Terms of employment: Temporary Full-time, non-exempt
Reports to: Senior Director, Sanctuary Experience
Location: Watkins Glen, NY
Pay: $15.50/hour
Travel: None
Benefits: Eligibility to participate in Farm Sanctuary’s 403(b) and medical insurance plan
Additional Specifications:
This position is from August 16th to November 2nd, 2025
Onsite housing is provided for the duration of seasonal employment (spaces are shared).
Our Process:
Stage 1: Virtual interview with a member of People and Culture
Stage 2: Virtual interview with your on-site supervisor
Stage 3: Reference checks
Stage 4: Job offer
Farm Sanctuary is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging. We work hard to provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type. We take our duty seriously to protect employees with regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
We believe that our prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion is a strength and essential to achieving our mission. A diverse workforce brings many perspectives, ideas, and experiences, leading to more creative and effective solutions to our complex issues. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive environment, we foster a culture of belonging where innovation and growth can thrive. We are dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization, including hiring and recruitment practices, employee development and training, and interactions with the communities we serve. We believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are core components in fulfilling our mission of rescuing and protecting farmed animals from cruelty, and we are committed to creating a culture of respect, civility, and compassion for all.
The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Any photos or videos taken in the scope of employment and/or related to Farm Sanctuary are considered work product and intellectual property of Farm Sanctuary.