Animal Care Technician II
About The Position
The Animal Care Technician II is a feed mixing and feeding position for cows and calves, with occasional duties milking cows and moving cattle to the parlor. Other duties may include cleaning, handling, and providing general care for dairy cattle efficiently and accurately. The position uses the employee’s experience and training to complete tasks and care for livestock with limited supervision. The work is at the UW-Madison Dairy Forage Research Center, whose field facilities are located about 30 miles north of Madison near the Wisconsin River. Work varies between non-climate-controlled animal housing and outdoor conditions in all weather. The schedule is a morning shift from 3:30 AM to 2:00 PM, four ten-hour days, with alternating three-day weekends off or working. The position requires lifting up to 50 pounds.
Requirements
- Experience operating skid steers, tractors, or other farm and utility equipment.
- Prior farm or agricultural work experience.
- Ability to work safely and effectively in an agricultural environment around large livestock, farm equipment, and operational hazards, following safety protocols and using PPE as required.
- Ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.
Nice To Haves
- 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.
- Strong communication skills and ability to interpret and follow written and oral instructions.
- A team-focused approach and willingness to learn, assist others, and contribute to shared goals.
- Previous farm experience is preferred, though training is available for a candidate who wants to learn.
- High school diploma preferred.
Responsibilities
- Observe animal behavior, perform basic animal care, and report concerns to appropriate entities to support animal health and well-being and promote research.
- Collect samples from animals and administer medications, injections, and treatments according to established protocols and procedures for diagnostic tests and research.
- Inspect equipment and report problems to support optimal and safe operation.
- Inventory, clean, and maintain the organization of animal holding spaces and supplies.
- Maintain and update records related to research procedures.
- Prepare food and formulas and feed animals according to established schedules and specifications.
- Mix feed and feed cows and calves; occasionally milk cows and move cattle to the parlor.
- Clean, handle, and provide general care for dairy cattle.
Benefits
- Generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off.
- Competitive insurances and savings accounts.
- Retirement benefits.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
