Animal Care Technician II
About The Position
The U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center, located north of Madison, Wisconsin, is seeking an Animal Care Technician II. This role involves milking cows, feeding calves, and moving cattle to the parlor. Additional duties include feeding, cleaning, handling, and general care of dairy cattle efficiently and accurately. The position requires using experience and training to complete tasks with limited supervision. Success in this role also depends on a positive attitude, good communication, strong working relationships with colleagues and supervisors, and initiative. Previous farm experience is preferred, but training will be provided for motivated candidates.
Requirements
- Knowledge of dairy cattle handling and animal husbandry principles, with the ability and willingness to learn animal health monitoring, recordkeeping, and treatment protocols through on‑the‑job training.
- Ability to work safely and effectively in an agricultural environment, including around large livestock, farm equipment, and operational hazards.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to interpret and follow written and oral instructions.
- Team‑focused approach with a willingness to learn, assist others, and contribute to shared goals.
Nice To Haves
- Prior farm or agricultural work experience (e.g., general farm labor, agricultural internships, or seasonal agricultural work)
- Previous experience working with dairy cattle, calves, or other livestock in a farm or research setting (e.g., feeding, bedding, monitoring animal health, or assisting with herd movement)
- Experience operating skid steers, tractors, or other farm and utility equipment (e.g., using a skid steer to clean pens, move feed, or transport materials)
Responsibilities
- Collects samples from animals and administers medications, injections, and treatments according to established protocols and procedures to be used for diagnostic tests and research
- Observes animal behavior, performs basic animal care, and reports concerns to the appropriate entities to contribute to the health and well-being of animals and promote research
- Prepares food and formulas and feeds animals according to established schedules and specifications
- Maintains organization of and updates records related to research procedures
- Inventories, cleans, and maintains organization of animal holding spaces and supplies
- Inspects and reports equipment problems to ensure optimal and safe operation
Benefits
- generous vacation
- holidays
- paid time off
- competitive insurances
- savings accounts
- retirement benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
