Animal Technician Supervisor

About This Role:

This position is critical to the overall operation of the KSU Dairy Teaching and Research Center. It involves supervision of other employees and the care and comfort of the animals housed at the DTRC at Kansas State University.

Incumbent functions as the assistant manager of the Dairy Teaching and Research Center and is responsible for ensuring the safety of the cows and other dairy unit employees. Assumes responsibility for operation of the dairy unit in the manager's absence. Incumbent is responsible for milking cows at least two days each week and for making vital animal observations during the milking process. Incumbent is responsible for collecting sterile samples of milk to be tested for antibiotics or bacteria.

Incumbent assists manager with unit responsibilities on holidays and weekends.

Supervises and trains student assistants in proper milking procedures and other general dairy farm practices.  Incumbent is responsible for helping manager keep employees well informed of expectations of duties. Incumbent offers assistance when required in performing daily routines. Incumbent practices and teaches safety precautions at all times. Maintains and administers a continuing education program for all employees involved in animal care and equipment maintenance.  Also supervisors other full-time and part-time employees and students. 

Incumbent must be able to identify estrus activities, be proficient at artificial insemination techniques, breeds animals according to current research outlines and records breeding information. Incumbent must follow established guidelines for sire selection. Incumbent must be able to recognize sick animals and administer treatment, care and feeding of these animals as outlined by supervisor and established farm protocols. Incumbent assists veterinarians any lime their services are required on the farm and cooperates with the Vet Clinic in diagnostic work. Incumbent administers herd health program as outlined by supervisor and established farm protocols.

Incumbent must be able to perform the various skills required to maintain equipment and facilities used for the dairy herd. Must be able to diagnose equipment problems and perform or supervise minor repairs. Constructs required facilities and equipment items within reason and designs and implements routine facility and equipment maintenance programs. Incumbent must maintain current replacement heifer performance records and equipment maintenance records.

Incumbent is responsible for obstetrical care of cows and calves, assisting in delivery of calves when necessary, early post-natal care, identification of calves and associated record keeping. Must be able to recognize problems and take corrective actions

Participates in using records to Improve herd performance and continually seeks ways to reduce cost of production and improve efficiency of the operation.  Responsible to assist with other tasks and duties as assigned by the manager.

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.   To see what benefits are available, please visit:  https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion.  The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• H.S. Diploma
• Two years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior milking experience
• Prior large animal experience
• Ability to detect sick cows
• Experience with facilities and equipment maintenance
• Ability to operate tractors, skid loaders and feeding equipment
• Prior supervisory experience

Other Requirements:

•  K-State new hires must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (unless granted an exemption by the university) by December 8, 2021 or their first day of employment. To learn more about this requirement and potential exemptions, please visit K-State’s COVID-19 website.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

• KSU PageUp online application
• Letter of Interest
• Resume
• List of three contacts with phone #'s and email addresses

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$17.69 - $27.41 hourly

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.