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RESEARCH SPECIALIST SR - Foremost Dairy Farm

University of Missouri-Columbia
parental leave, paid time off
United States, Missouri, Columbia
801 Conley Avenue (Show on map)
Mar 18, 2026
Hiring Department

Foremost Dairy Farm

Job Description

The Senior Research Specialist will work closely with the Central MO Research, Extension, and Education Center (CM REEC) Director and the Foremost Dairy Farm Manager to conduct livestock performance research, livestock feed, milk production research, and demonstration projects. This position will also work closely with MU Research Staff, graduate students, and undergraduate students to accomplish their research and education goals in an efficient manner while providing care for livestock. This position may require work to be performed outside of normal work hours, which may include evenings and weekends.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

  • Possesses conceptual knowledge of theories, practices and procedures within the Research function.
  • Applies general research knowledge developed through education and experiences.
  • Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
  • Regularly lift up to 75 lbs.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Work with Central MO REEC Director and the Foremost Dairy Farm manager to conduct livestock and milk production research and demonstration projects.
  • Assist MU faculty and staff with dairy cattle management, feeding schedules, establishment of forages, and pasture grazing studies.
  • Work with Dairy Farm manager to facilitate service repair as needed, and general readiness of farm equipment and livestock feeding equipment.
  • Feed and milk animals according to schedule and manage manure handling facilities.
  • Work with Farm Manager and Veterinary Medicine to treat sick animals.
  • Work with Director and Farm Manager to create and assign tasks for student workers and provide oversight for their duties.
  • Work with MU research staff and graduate students to accomplish their research goals in an efficient manner.
  • Assist the Director, Farm Manager, and other staff in outreach programs including conferences, workshops, field days, and tours.
  • Assist with other functions in the Central MO REEC as needed.
Shift

8 am - 5 pm Mon - Fri with some flexible days to cover weekend shifts as needed monthly.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in animal science, Plant Sciences, or comparable field of study providing an understanding of forage, silage, feed production, and quality measures for livestock feed is preferred.
  • Experience in an agricultural research related field, operating and repairing agricultural machinery, and working with livestock, including feeding and treating sick animals.
  • Experience establishing and harvesting feed with an emphasis on quality measures for milk production.
  • Currently have or willing to obtain a Commercial Driver's License
Anticipated Hiring Range

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $52,915.20 - $83,408.00 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-9E
University Title: SENIOR RESEARCH SPECIALIST

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

MU Application, Cover Letter, CV/Resume, and contact information for references will be required for hire.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

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