Agricultural Specialist II - Dairy Farm
About The Position
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking an Agricultural Specialist II – Team Lead to support dairy operations at the ISU Dairy Farm. This is a unique opportunity to work in a university setting that combines production agriculture, applied research, teaching, and student engagement while contributing to the mission of a land-grant institution. The Team Lead oversees evening operations and helps ensure high-quality animal care, efficient dairy production, and successful support of teaching and research activities. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work with cattle, leading a team, solving problems, and working in a collaborative environment alongside faculty, researchers, and students.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience
- Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae
- Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience with milking procedures and equipment
- Experience working with livestock or large animals and familiarity with animal health monitoring and treatment
- Familiarity with general agricultural equipment operation and maintenance
- Leadership or team lead experience
Responsibilities
- Oversee evening crew staff and student employees to ensure timely completion of milking, herd care, sanitation, and daily operations
- Train team members in dairy production practices, animal handling, safety procedures, and research protocols
- Coordinate with daytime staff and farm management to maintain consistent herd care and farm operations
- Monitor animal health, respond to emergencies, and troubleshoot operational issues
- Support applied research activities and collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, and researchers
- Maintain records related to animal health, production data, equipment maintenance, and research activities
- Operate and maintain farm equipment and facilities, including tractors, skid steers, and milking systems
- Utilize herd management software and Microsoft Office tools for data tracking and reporting
- Assist with budgeting, inventory management, and procurement of feed, cattle, and supplies
Benefits
- health insurance
- retirement benefits
- paid leave
- professional development opportunities
- medical and dental
- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
- Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
- Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
- Life insurance and long-term disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Various voluntary benefits and discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellbeing program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
