Position Title: Farm Production Technician
Group / Department: United Animal Health / Research
Position Reports To: Research Farm Manager
Location: Frankfort, Indiana
Approx. # of People Supervised: 0
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Position Summary:
The primary responsibility of this role is to perform daily tasks and adhere to standard operating procedures in the grow/finish unit of a swine production and research facility. This individual will ensure the highest standards of animal welfare while supporting scientific research and production objectives.
Core Responsibilities:
Animal Care and Welfare
- Provide daily care, feeding, and watering of animals in alignment with established protocols and schedules.
- Monitor the health and behavior of animals, promptly reporting any signs of illness or distress to the appropriate manager.
- Maintain clean, sanitary production facilities through regular cleaning and disinfecting (ex., power washing stalls, pens, and equipment).
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments under veterinary or researcher guidance.
- Perform swine production tasks, including heat checking, breeding, animal movement, piglet processing, and feeder adjustments.
Research Support
- Collaborate with research staff to execute animal study protocols effectively.
- Conduct research-related measurements, such as weighing animals and feeders, collecting feed samples, and recording data.
- Perform daily observations of pigs and their environment, ensuring data accuracy and compliance with trial requirements.
- Assist with animal handling and restraint during research procedures and sample collection.
Facility Maintenance and Safety
- Conduct routine maintenance to ensure functionality and cleanliness of housing areas, equipment, and facilities.
- Follow all safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment for colleagues, animals, and oneself.
- Identify and promptly report safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, or maintenance needs.
Team Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with team members to ensure efficient operations of the research farm.
- Assist in training and mentoring new staff or volunteers on animal care and research protocols.
- Foster a positive and respectful work environment through effective communication and teamwork.
- Support other farm employees with daily tasks as needed.
Additional Job Responsibilities / Duties
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Work Environment:
- Majority of work occurs in an indoor swine production setting, characterized by dusty, noisy conditions and unpredictable animal movements.
- Requires flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and extended hours as research demands.
Minimum Qualifications: Please note that although the following qualifications are preferred, candidates with diverse backgrounds, education, and experiences will be considered for this role.
Education / Training
- High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework in animal science, agriculture, or related fields preferred.
Relevant Experience
- 1–2 years of experience in swine production, animal care, livestock management, or similar farm roles is highly desirable.
Specialized Knowledge
- Familiarity with swine nursery and finishing procedures.
- Understanding of general safety principles.
- Understanding of research principles and data collection techniques.
- Knowledge of farm equipment operation, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Non-Technical Skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills for collaboration with team members, researchers, and veterinarians.
- Effective problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Capacity to identify safety issues.
- Champion of United Animal Health’s cultural values.
- Keen observational skills for detecting deviations in animal health or behavior.
Licenses/Certification
- None required.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift 60 lbs. or more periodically.
- Good body flexibility, including frequent bending and twisting.
- Mobility and stamina to endure manual labor, extended periods of standing, and occasional jostling by animals.
Safety Requirements
- Use of ear protection in high-noise areas.
- Wear a breathing mask in dusty conditions.
- Use safety goggles in areas with a risk of flying objects.
- Adherence to all company safety procedures and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.