Animal Care Technician - Lafayette, MN

Christensen Farms•Lafayette, MN

About The Position

Christensen Farms is hiring an Animal Care Technician to support its Farrowing and Breeding departments. This hands-on role involves daily care of the swine herd and barn operations, with a focus on animal health, comfort, welfare, biosecurity, and safety. The position is suited to a reliable, hardworking person comfortable in a fast-paced, physical environment who is interested in a long-term career in livestock production. The position starts at $21 per hour. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a rotating weekend. Employees who work a weekend have a scheduled day off during the week. The full-time position averages 40–43 hours per week. The role 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 arriving prepared and performing daily tasks precisely.
Physical readiness and resilience to handle barn work while maintaining high standards of animal care.
Ability to follow established protocols and standard operating procedures with attention to detail.
Willingness to learn, take direction, and develop through hands-on experience and structured training.
Strong teamwork and communication skills.
Commitment to biosecurity measures, animal welfare standards, and company policies.

Responsibilities

Provide daily feed and water to animals to maintain 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 to identify health issues, provide treatments, and support animal well-being.
Clean and disinfect facilities and drain pits to maintain sanitation.
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 insurance.
Long-term disability insurance.
401(k) plan.
Paid holidays.
Paid time off bank.
Employee assistance program (EAP).