Animal Care Technician - Canby, MN

Christensen Farms•Canby, MN

About The Position

Christensen Farms is seeking a dedicated Animal Care Technician to support the Farrowing and Breeding departments. This hands-on role contributes to daily animal care and barn operations, helping ensure the health, comfort, and well-being of the swine herd. The position suits a reliable, hardworking person who is comfortable in a fast-paced, physical environment and committed to animal welfare, biosecurity, and safety. The role starts at $21 per hour and averages 43–45 hours per week. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a rotating weekend; employees working a weekend receive a scheduled day off during the week. The position reports to the Sow Farm Manager. Eligible newly hired Animal Care Technicians may receive a $2,500 sign-on and retention bonus.

Requirements

Reliability, a strong work ethic, and commitment to showing up prepared and performing daily tasks precisely.
Physical readiness and resilience to meet the demands of barn work while maintaining high standards of animal care.
Ability to follow established protocols and standard operating procedures with attention to detail.
Strong teamwork and communication skills.
Commitment to biosecurity measures, animal welfare standards, and company policies.

Nice To Haves

Eagerness to learn, take direction, and grow in the livestock industry through hands-on experience and structured training.

Responsibilities

Provide daily feed and water to animals to support consistent health and nutrition.
Heat-check and breed sows in heat according to the daily schedule, and perform gilt heat induction following established protocols.
Process piglets by castrating, tail docking, and administering iron and antibiotics.
Assist with farrowing and litter care, including ensuring piglets are warm.
Monitor sows and litters daily, identify health issues, provide treatments, and support animal well-being.
Maintain sanitation by cleaning, disinfecting, and draining pits.
Handle animal movements and assist with weaning.
Keep accurate records and follow biosecurity and safety protocols.

Benefits

$2,500 sign-on and retention bonus for eligible newly hired Animal Care Technicians.
Health insurance.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Flexible spending account (FSA).
Life insurance.
Short-term disability coverage.
Long-term disability coverage.
401(k) plan.
Paid holidays.
Paid time off bank.
Employee assistance program (EAP).