Stable Hand

Role summary

This opportunity is with the University of Guelph’s Health Sciences Centre, specifically within the Large Animal Hospital. The role reports to the Manager, Patient Care and Service Delivery and is centered on maintaining clean, safe housing areas, supporting animal care, and helping ensure the well-being of large animal patients. The position involves close day-to-day interaction with clients, students, and animals, and is primarily based in Large Animal Housing with occasional support for other units when operational needs require it.

There are 3 openings available. The job is covered by the collective agreement with USW Local 4120. This is a regular employee position.

Location: Guelph, Ontario, Canada, N1G 2W1.

Key duties

• Keep stalls, turnout areas, and shared spaces clean and disinfected using proper husbandry and infection-control practices.
• Use approved cleaning agents and disinfectants safely in line with WHMIS and occupational health and safety requirements.
• Handle patient and resident animals in a calm, safe, and efficient manner.
• Support animal husbandry and nutrition standards for animals under care.
• Carry out basic patient care tasks such as cold hosing, bathing, hand-walking, and grooming.
• Help transport animals and patients to and from service areas as needed.
• Operate a truck/trailer to move animals from outside sources and manage disposal/transport duties while keeping proper records.
• Use a forklift to unload inventory such as shavings and hay deliveries.
• Monitor feed, equipment, and supply levels so stock remains sufficient.
• Make sure rooms and spaces are equipped with the furniture and supplies needed for use.
• Note and report unusual findings related to fecal and urine output, appetite, behavior, or attitude to the health team.
• Complete a daily patient census.

Requirements and qualifications

Applicants should have an education level equivalent to full secondary school, typically Grade 12, along with at least 6 months of work experience. Previous work with large animals such as horses, cows, or pigs is required, though related equivalent experience may also be accepted. The role also calls for the ability to complete all duties safely and effectively, plus scheduling flexibility for days, afternoons, nights, weekends, and on-call shifts.

A valid Class G driver’s license is mandatory. Forklift training, together with yearly safety orientation, is also required. An Animal Care Certificate or a Large Animal Husbandry course would be an advantage.

Additional information

This position is classified under USW, Local 4120 at Band 3, with wage placement subject to final review. Position number: 10927157. Requisition ID: 2596.

Current University of Guelph employees must submit their application through the internal career page to be considered as internal applicants.

The University of Guelph encourages applications from all qualified candidates and welcomes people from groups that have been historically underrepresented in employment, as part of its commitment to a more inclusive workplace.

Posting date: 2026-06-29. Closing date: 2026-07-06.