Animal Caretaker

Daybreak Foods, Inc.•Lake Mills, WI

5d•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 on barn conditions to help maintain a safe and productive environment, and performs light maintenance on facilities and equipment. The Animal Caretaker observes bird health and the supply of feed, light, air, and water; monitors laying-hen health and production; and reports findings to the Production Manager or Supervisor. The role also performs cleaning, manure-belt and egg-line checks, mortality collection and disposal, bird handling and moving activities, and basic operation and monitoring of environmental and egg-flow systems. The position requires safe equipment use and compliance with company policies and procedures.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.
Self-directed and organized.
Ability to track and document activities using the 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.
Must enjoy working in close contact with animals.
Ability to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Secure chickens and the premises by keeping facility doors locked to protect birds from predators, external climate, and unauthorized personnel.
Document completed tasks daily and weekly.
Observe bird health and ensure the proper supply of feed, light, air, and water daily.
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 the poultry houses.
Maintain and monitor ventilation systems to ensure proper ventilation in the chicken houses.
Safely operate required equipment and tools.
Follow company safety policies and practices, and all company policies and procedures.
Demonstrate an understanding of laying-hen husbandry.
Comprehend and operate automated environmental and egg-flow computers.
Continuously monitor bird health and laying-hen production 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.