Ruminant Technician

Role Summary

The Ruminant Technician is an integral part of the Research and Development team based at the US - Mendon, IL site. This role supports the execution and planning of scientific research, including animal care and handling, data collection, and the maintenance and operation of equipment. It involves hands-on work with cattle, including cannulated animals, and will assist scientists, research coordinators, and other colleagues involved in farm and research activities.

Responsibilities

• Animal Care and Husbandry: Provide daily care and husbandry for animals, including mixing and feeding TMR diets, monitoring animal health, and cleaning of equipment and animal pens as needed; administer treatments as directed by research protocols or veterinarians.
• Research Support: Assist scientists and research coordinators in setting up experiments and collecting data; monitor animals during experiments, recording observations and reporting any abnormalities.
• Facility Maintenance: Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of animal holding areas and equipment; perform routine maintenance and cleaning of research facilities; monitor feeding equipment to ensure working operation.
• Safety and Compliance: Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, including the handling and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Equipment Operation: Operate and maintain specialized equipment used in animal research.
• Communication and Collaboration: Foster effective communication between team members, collaborators and external partners.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Experience handling and caring for animals
• Previous cattle husbandry experience
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and operate large equipment, including tractors, skid steer, TMR mixer
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment
• Ability to work on a weekend and holiday rotation

Skills

• Extremely high level of attention to detail and high standard of quality
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to communicate verbally and in writing with others in an objective and cooperative manner

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Experience handing and caring for animals
• Previous cattle husbandry experience

Additional Requirements

• Required to stand constantly
• Required to bend frequently
• Required to use hands constantly