Buffalo Worker

Prairie Island Indian Community•Welch Township, MN

About The Position

The Buffalo Worker is responsible for the care of Prairie Island Indian Community’s Bison Herd. Workers will help implement a holistic management plan including hay production, manure and fertilizer management, water quality and soil health, herd health, breeding, and genetic diversity.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Good interpersonal and organizational skills
Adequate computer skills Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook)
Ability to work independently and effectively with minimal supervision
Ability to work well within the existing team and government structure
Comfortable working with bison
Ability to respond quickly and calmly to an emergency
Sensitive to Native American Culture
Must pass drug screen (UA) and a criminal background check
Valid driver’s license and proof of insurability

Nice To Haves

Highly knowledgeable and experienced in farming and feeding livestock
Experience working with heavy farm equipment.
Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Connection to Dakota culture and values.

Responsibilities

Monitor food and water supplies and ensure bison have access to hay, feed, mineral tubs, and clean water. Mix feed (if needed), fill feed troughs, and clean water drinkers weekly.
Transfer bison between pastures for grazing needs and pasture restoration
Assist with wintering, calving and mating requirements as needed.
Perform basic animal health checks: look for signs of disease, illness, or injury, and treat animals according to guidelines.
Check and clear fence lines weekly. Make repairs to pens and fences as needed.
Maintain the buffalo project grounds by mowing, weed-whipping, brush clearing, tree trimming, and supporting winter snow removal.
Update and maintain animal records: genealogy, diet, weight, medications, food intake, tag number, breeding, etc.
Plant, cultivate, and harvest hay and feed grain for stock.
Maintain and repair buildings and equipment.
Maintain a clean and organized workspace.
Assist with sorting, health checks, and biannual vaccinations.
Understand and adhere to all safety and emergency response procedures.
Other duties assigned by the Buffalo Project Supervisor.