Position Title: Production Technician
Location: Sheridan, IN
Employee Type: Full Time Exempt
Position Summary: The primary responsibility of this role is to perform daily production operations and standard operating procedures in a swine research facility. This individual will ensure the highest standards of animal care and welfare while supporting scientific research and production objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Swine Production Operations
- Execute daily production tasks which may include but are not limited to: feeding, watering, weaning, breeding, animal movement, heat checking, and feeder adjustments.
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments under veterinary or researcher guidance.
- Perform piglet processing and animal handling.
- Maintain clean, sanitary facilities through power washing and regular disinfecting.
Research Support
- Execute animal study protocols in collaboration with research staff.
- Conduct research-related measurements including weighing animals and feeders, collecting feed samples, and recording data.
- Perform daily observations of pigs and their environment to ensure data accuracy and protocol compliance.
- Assist with animal handling, restraint, and sample collection during research procedures.
Facility Maintenance & Safety
- Conduct routine maintenance and repairs on facilities and equipment.
- Promote and maintain a safe, secure, and biosecure working environment.
- Identify and promptly report safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, or maintenance needs.
- Follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Team Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with team members to ensure efficient farm operations.
- Assist in training new staff on animal care and research protocols.
- Support other farm employees with daily tasks as needed.
Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Typical Work Environment
- Farm-based environment with exposure to livestock, farm equipment, and varying weather conditions (hot, cold, humid, etc.).
- Requires flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and extended hours as research demands.
Minimum Qualifications
Education & Training
- High school diploma or GED required.
Relevant Experience
- 1-2 years of professional experience in swine production preferred.
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of swine production principles and procedures.
- Understanding of farm equipment operation and general maintenance techniques.
- Familiarity with research principles, data collection, and reporting techniques.
- Understanding of general safety principles.
Non-Technical Skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Effective problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Capacity to identify safety concerns.
- Keen observational skills for detecting deviations in animal health or behavior.
Licenses / Certifications
- None required.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. or more regularly.
- Good body flexibility including frequent bending, twisting, and repetitive movements.
- Mobility and stamina to endure manual labor, included extended periods of standing, and working with livestock.
- Ability to work in farm environments with exposure to varying temperatures and seasonal conditions.
Safety Requirements
- Adhere to all company safety procedures and regulations.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Strictly follow all biosecurity protocols.