Animal Care Technician II

University of Wisconsin Madison•Prairie du Sac, WI

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Animal Care Technician II is a feed mixing and feeding position for cows and calves at the U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center. The role also includes occasional duties such as milking cows and moving cattle to the parlor, as well as cleaning, handling, and providing general care for dairy cattle efficiently and accurately. The technician uses experience and training to complete tasks and care for livestock with limited supervision. Success requires a positive working attitude, effective communication, good working relationships with coworkers and supervisors, and initiative in identifying and completing needed work. Previous farm experience is preferred, although training is available for candidates who want to learn. The position is with the UW-Madison Dairy Forage Research Center. Work takes place in non-climate-controlled animal housing and outdoors in all weather conditions. The morning schedule is 3:30 AM–2:00 PM, four 10-hour days, with alternating three-day weekends off or working. A criminal background check and evaluation/probationary period are required. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Requirements

Experience operating skid steers, tractors, or other farm and utility equipment, such as for cleaning pens, moving feed, or transporting materials.
Prior farm or agricultural work experience, including general farm labor, agricultural internships, or seasonal agricultural work.
Ability to work safely and effectively in an agricultural environment around large livestock, farm equipment, and operational hazards, follow safety protocols, and use personal protective equipment as required.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Authorization to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of dairy cattle handling and animal husbandry principles, 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.
Team-focused approach, willingness to learn and assist others, and ability to contribute to shared goals.
Previous farm experience.

Responsibilities

Observe animal behavior, perform basic animal care, and report concerns to appropriate entities to support animal health and well-being and research.
Collect animal samples and administer medications, injections, and treatments according to established protocols and procedures for diagnostic testing 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 and deliver feed to cows and calves; occasionally milk cows and move cattle to the parlor.
Clean, handle, and provide general care for dairy cattle.