Livestock Production Specialist I

The Tufts Farm is an integral unit of Cummings School's Division of Animal Resources. The farm maintains teaching, research, and production herds of many common agricultural species including cattle, sheep, poultry, and horses. In addition to providing an opportunity for hands-on instruction and skill development of students in the professional DVM curriculum, the farm manages 110 acres of hay, 20 acres of corn, and 60 acres of pasture.

The Livestock Production Specialist I is a vital member of the integrated team responsible for the care and feeding of our cattle, sheep, horses and chickens, and performs all aspects of crop production and waste management. The team works closely with Cummings School faculty to train veterinary and other students in safe and humane handling of livestock and in performing routine clinical procedures. We support a growing and sophisticated research program. The Livestock Production Specialist will work 40 hours per week on a Wednesday to Sunday schedule.

Essential functions will be:

• The Livestock Production Specialist will devote approximately 60% of their time to supporting husbandry of all the farm species including feeding of animals and cleaning farm animal housing areas. Specialized tasks include but are not limited to operation of farm machinery, artificial insemination of cattle, and nursing care of sick animals under veterinary supervision.
• All farm employees are cross trained to be able to work with all species on an equal basis.
• In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.Under supervision of Farm Manager, maintain needed records and assist with scheduling of shipments, coordination of health certificates, invoices and other required documentation.
• Document and maintain daily animal census.Prepare barns for clinical instruction and provide instruction of DVM and other students in humane animal handling, performance of basic veterinary procedures and animal husbandry.
• Produce crops including hay and corn silage using equipment such as tractors, mowers, tedders, balers and choppers. Manage waste by managing compost piles and spreading compost on hay and corn fields.
• Support research by recording data as required, participating in research projects, and administering medications as required

Basic Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 1 year experience with livestock husbandry and production, including manure handling, livestock restraint and handling, feeds and feeding, use of common farm equipment, and breeding
• Ability to operate and maintain common farm equipment including skid steers, tractors, dump trucks and implements used to create forage crops
• Interest and enthusiasm for teaching
• Collaborative and collegial attitude
• Ability to work weekends and occasional holidays
• Computer skills, including MS Excel, MS Word

Preferred Qualifications:

• AS/AA or higher in Animal Science, Business or other relevant field
• Advanced training or experience with farm equipment operation and with horses, poultry, cattle, and/or sheep highly desirable
• Flexibility and skill in a fast-paced environment

Special Work Schedule Requirements:

The schedule may be unpredictable and overtime is commonly required. The position is considered "essential" with respect to weather and other emergencies.