Animal Caretaker

Daybreak Foods, Inc.•Graettinger, IA

10d

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 and productive environment, and performs light maintenance on facilities and equipment. The position monitors bird health and the supply of feed, light, air, and water; maintains and cleans poultry-house areas and equipment; supports bird movements; and operates automated environmental and egg-flow computers. The Animal Caretaker follows company policies, procedures, and safety practices and reports observations to the Production Manager or Supervisor. The starting rate is $17.33 per hour, with incremental increases earned through developing skills and qualifications. Ask the Human Resources Representative about potential bonuses.

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 flexible schedule.
Basic reading, writing, and math skills.
Positive attitude and ability to work with a team.
Must enjoy working in close contact with animals.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma, GED, or equivalency.
One year of experience in an agricultural environment and animal care.
Working knowledge of agricultural operations.

Responsibilities

Keep facility doors locked to protect chickens and premises from predators, external climate, and unauthorized personnel.
Document completed tasks daily and weekly using the correct forms and paperwork.
Observe bird health and ensure proper supplies of feed, light, air, and water each day.
Collect and dispose of mortality properly.
Place chickens back into the system when the lights turn off.
Walk rows of chickens and check egg lines for blockages.
Observe and complete daily cleaning of manure-belt equipment.
Sweep and clean different areas of 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, as well as all company policies and procedures.
Demonstrate an understanding of laying-hen husbandry.
Comprehend and operate automated environmental and egg-flow computers.
Continuously monitor the health and production of laying hens in the houses and report findings to the Production Manager or Supervisor.
Perform tasks associated with 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.
Perform other duties as assigned.