Animal Caretaker

Daybreak Foods, Inc.•Lake Mills, WI

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 Animal Caretaker monitors bird health and production, feed, light, air, and water; maintains poultry-house cleanliness and ventilation; and helps protect the chickens and premises. The position also involves operating equipment and automated environmental and egg-flow computers, documenting work, and assisting with bird movement while emphasizing animal welfare.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalency 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.
Must enjoy working in close contact with animals.
Able to meet the listed 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

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.
Observe bird health and check 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 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 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.