Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary (EDS)  promotes the welfare and status of donkeys through a culture of caring. Situated in the peaceful countryside of McGregor, EDS provides a tranquil haven and dedicated lifelong care for rescued, destitute, and abused donkeys. The organisation serves as a national centre of knowledge, striving to elevate the treatment and respect of donkeys across South Africa. 

EDS is seeking a proactive and empathetic Donkey Care and Outreach Officer to develop and implement community-based donkey welfare programmes. This dynamic, dual-focused role splits responsibilities between hands-on sanctuary care in collaboration with donkey care staff. The incoming Officer will also lead outreach, working directly with communities and delivering practical upskilling and welfare interventions.

Key Responsibilities / Key Performance Areas

1. Long-term donkey care and welfare

2. Research and Development of best practices for donkey welfare

3. Community engagement and stakeholder development 

4. Educational design and presentation (including material development)

5. Monitoring and Evaluation

6. Reporting

Skills & Experience 

• At least 4 to 5 years’ experience in a similar position and/or in the animal welfare sector, particularly with donkey welfare and equids, is advantageous.

• Whilst equine experience is advantageous, EDS is willing to upskill candidates in donkey care knowledge.

• A track record of the design and implementation of community-based educational learning programmes and community engagement.

• Ability to cultivate trust and a relationship with communities, individuals and relevant organisations.

• Proficiency in English and Afrikaans (or another language).

• Valid driver’s licence (a car will be provided for travel to communities).

Key Attributes and Skills

• Loves Animals.

• Excellent written and verbal English (essential) - creative and persuasive.

• Personable – relates well to people, skills that allow them to interact proactively.

• Community education skills.

• Research skills.

• Self-driven, proactive, determined, and resilient.

• Enjoys learning, self-development.

• Hands-on, rolls up their sleeves personality (not scared to get their hands dirty).

• Confidence in the work they will propose and follow through to ensure it is implemented once approved.

• Honest enough to acknowledge when things don’t work, and to collaboratively be open to new approaches.

• Put the reputation of Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary first.

Closing Date for Applications:  Midnight, 28th

 September 2026

First Interview Dates: TBC 

How to apply:

Please email us at recruitment@charitycareersafrica.com to request a full job description. Please contact us well in advance of the closing date to give us time to consider your application and pre-interview the strongest applicants.