Animal Technician, College of Agriculture & Bioresources

Primary Purpose: To provide animal care in the Rayner Dairy Research and Teaching Facility by performing a wide range of activities associated with efficient functioning of the unit, animal well-being, teaching, and research. Nature of Work: Reporting to the Rayner Dairy Manager, this position performs dairy cow milking, feeding and caring for livestock, and assisting with unit research and student training. Work is performed independently with minimal supervision and involves lifting and moving of heavy feed and other supplies. Working in a facility with large animals, the incumbent is exposed to animal dander, waste, and the unpredictability of working with live animals. Shift work is involved providing coverage at all times of the day, on weekdays, weekends, and statutory holidays. Typical Duties or Accountabilities: Feeding cattle inside and outside the barn, handling and providing care for livestock under research and teaching conditions in accordance with the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC); data collection and record keeping; operation and maintenance of automated feeding and cleaning equipment; operation of farm equipment such as tractors, bobcat, loader, feed mixers, manure spreaders and trucks; demonstrating proper animal handling and milking techniques to students; monitoring animals for health and reproductive status; completing artificial insemination if required, and performance of other duties as assigned. Education: Post-high school education such as a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture or Certificate in Agriculture, specializing in Dairy Farming, is required. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Licenses: Must hold and maintain a valid Saskatchewan driver’s license and a clean driving record. Experience: Recent experience in a dairy barn with several years of milking and animal handling experience required. Several years experience operating tractors, skid steers, loaders, feed mixers, manure spreaders, and other farm machinery is required. Experience in heat detection and artificial insemination would be an asset. Experience working with robotic milking systems would be an asset. Skills: Demonstrated understanding of humane animal care and handling principles; record keeping skills; ability to operate farm equipment safely; ability to interact and communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors, researchers and students; and possess the ability to perform heavy physical labour. Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to Jensen Jean at 306-966-4140 or <[email hidden]> .