Animal Caretaker - Vin South

Daybreak Foods•Eagle Grove, IA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor, the Animal Caretaker attends to the welfare and environment of chickens and follows industry animal welfare practices and procedures. The role monitors and reports barn conditions to help ensure a safe, productive environment and performs light maintenance on facilities and equipment. The position involves monitoring laying hens’ health and production, maintaining poultry-house equipment and systems, documenting work, and supporting bird-moving activities. The starting rate is $17.33, with incremental increases earned through developing skills and qualifications. Potential bonuses may be discussed with the Human Resources Representative.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalency preferred.
One year of experience in an agricultural environment and animal care preferred.
Self-directed and organized.
Ability to track and document activities using correct forms and paperwork.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Detail-oriented.
Ability to interact with individuals from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Good attendance record and a flexible schedule.
Basic reading, writing, and math skills.
Positive attitude and ability to work with a team.
Enjoy working in close contact with animals.
Ability to perform the stated physical demands, including standing and walking constantly; gripping, grasping, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, and frequently lifting up to 10 pounds; and occasionally sitting, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of agricultural operations.

Responsibilities

Keep facility doors locked to protect chickens from predators, external climate, and unauthorized personnel.
Document completed tasks daily and weekly.
Observe bird health and check that feed, light, air, and water are properly supplied each day.
Collect and properly dispose of mortality.
Return chickens to the system when the lights turn off.
Walk chicken rows and check egg lines for blockages.
Observe and complete daily cleaning of manure-belt equipment.
Sweep and clean areas of the poultry houses.
Maintain and monitor ventilation systems to ensure proper ventilation in chicken houses.
Safely operate required equipment and tools.
Follow company safety policies and practices.
Demonstrate an understanding of laying-hen husbandry.
Comprehend and operate automated environmental and egg-flow computers.
Continuously monitor laying-hen health and production in the houses and report findings to the Production Manager or Supervisor.
Perform tasks related to moving birds in and out of houses, including handling bird-moving equipment and cleaning with pneumatic or pressurized water.
Monitor bird service activities, including birds moving in and out, with an emphasis on animal welfare.
Follow company policies and procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.