Production Specialist Jobs in Massachusetts

Overview

The Tufts Farm is an integral unit of the Cummings Department of Animal Resources. The farm maintains teaching and research herds of many common agricultural species including cattle, sheep, 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 both pasture and cropland.

The Livestock Production Specialist is a vital member of the integrated team responsible for the care and feeding of our cattle, sheep, and horses and maintains pastures for all animals. The team works closely with the Cummings 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. This position will work 35 hours per week on a shifted schedule.

• Farm animal production (horses, sheep, cattle): The Livestock Production Specialist will devote approximately 50% 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.

• Record keeping: Under supervision, maintain needed records and assist with scheduling of shipments, coordination of health certificates, invoices and other required documentation. Document and maintain daily animal census.

• Teaching: 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.

• Pasture management and waste management: Manage pastures by maintaining fences, mowing fields and improving pasture quality as needed. Manage waste by managing compost piles and spreading compost on pastures and open space.

• Research Support and Research animal care:

• Support research by recording data as required, participating in research projects, and administering medications as required.
• All Farm employees are cross trained to take care of various research animal species that belong to LAMS, so that they are able to fill in for their colleagues when needed.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Knowledge and experience typically acquired by: 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
• Interest and enthusiasm for teaching
• Enthusiastic, customer oriented attitude
• Computer skills, including MS Excel, MS Word
• Ability to work weekends and occasional holidays
• Ability to operate and maintain common farm equipment including skid steers, tractors, dump trucks and implements used to create forage crops
• Collaborative and collegial attitude
• Valid US driver’s license

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate's Degree AS/AA or higher in Animal Science, Business or other relevant field
• Advanced training or experience with swine, cattle and/or sheep
• 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

SALARY RANGE: Minimum $20.50, Midpoint $24.40, Maximum $28.30