Mississippi State Animal and Dairy Sciences: Agricultural Technician

The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences is currently seeking an Agricultural Technician to assist in the production operations of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) Bearden Dairy Research Center (Bearden Center). The Bearden Center is a 350-animal dairy consisting of a modern double eight parallel milking parlor, modern working facilities for the care of the replacement heifers, and approximately 1,200 acres of pasture and crop land.

To perform milking duties for a large dairy herd, maintain milk records, and assume responsibility for good husbandry practices as related to health, sanitation, and general care of dairy animals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Prepare, clean, and manage the milking equipment, parlor, and tank room in accordance with sanitary standards.
2. Managing the free stall housing system.
3. Group and separate cattle as required.
4. Assist with heifer development.
5. Perform milking duties twice daily.
6. Operate computerized milking equipment.
7. Observe cows for health problems and performance levels.
8. Clean facilities and care for animals as circumstances require.
9. Monitor milk storage facilities to ensure quality of milk.
10. Assist with research activities.
11. Train and observe student workers with milking procedures.
12. Perform related duties as assigned.

Shifts will vary and can include early morning and/or afternoon milkings. The successful candidate will be expected to work weekends and holidays as needed, and job requires flexible scheduling. This position will accrue compensation time and will pay overtime only on holidays.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED, one year experience in animal care, and a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

Dairy cattle production/milking experience, and farm equipment operational experience.

Application Procedure:

All applicants must apply at www.jobs.msstate.edu to be considered for this position. Three names of reference should be submitted with application. Any questions should be directed to Ginger Cavinder, Box 9815, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662)325-2803, or glc140@msstate.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.