Pay Grade: 27N

Context of the Job:

Under limited supervision of the Dairy Manager, performs the standard operating procedures for the care and milking of dairy cattle. Assists the dairy researchers and supervisors with the collection of data related to animal research. Performs mechanical and maintenance duties. Principal emphasis is on the daily operations within the dairy unit including milking twice per day and the general care and housekeeping of the animals on an eight hour per day split shift.  Assists in the preparation of facilities for research and teaching projects. Maintains the dairy buildings and equipment and keeps them in good working condition and performs various duties related to the care and management of the dairy unit. Independent judgment is required to assess, prioritize and schedule jobs. 

Major Responsibilities:

• Supervises and assists routine milking of the lactational herd, research groupings, milk sampling and newborn calf care.
• Maintains the dairy facilities including cleaning, disinfection, and general repair of equipment. Assists in scheduling preventive maintenance/ and keeping records of work performed on equipment and vehicles. 
• Trains and supervises biweekly employees.
• Supervises and assist preparation of dairy facilities for research, teaching and extension.
• Assists project leaders in caring for experimental animals and data collection.
• Assist in teaching proper milking techniques for class laboratories.
• Supervises and assists in performing routine tasks necessary for the proper care of animals within the dairy unit. This includes providing water, feed, bedding and manure removal.
• Operates farm machinery including tractor and TMR wagon, skid steer, front-end loader, tractor, mower and manure spreader.
• Ensures that safety procedures are followed. 
• Responsible for complying with university policies, procedures, and best practices regarding protecting data and following UD data governance rules.
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. 
  
  

Environmental Factors/Occupational Exposures:

• The physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions.
• Frequently required to use personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.
  
  

Qualifications:

• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED with three or more years of farm experience.
• Knowledge of dairy cattle management preferred.
• Knowledge of general practices and operations of equipment as well as basic knowledge of heating, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting and masonry work.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects concurrently and to interpret work from written instructions.
• Ability and willingness to learn and accept new ideas, techniques and responsibilities.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively and interact well with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
• Basic computing skills, with ability to use email, internet, software such as Word and Excel. 
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.

Special Requirements:

• With or without assistance, must be able to routinely lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work in cramped areas and positions for extended periods of time, climb ladders in excess of 50 feet, wear a respirator and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and work above floor level or in pits.
• May be required to maintain a valid CDL A, B or C operator's license.
• Employment is dependent upon passing a University-specified medical evaluation related to the use of respiratory protection equipment.
• May be required to obtain and maintain a valid pesticide applicator's license.
• May be required to work after normal working hours to assist with farm emergencies.
• Must be able to work on weekends and holidays on a rotational basis.