Crop Production and Research Animal Caretaker Job

Crop Production and Research Animal Caretaker Job Summary

The Crop Production and Research Animal Caretaker will perform tasks related to beef cattle production, crop production, and facility/equipment maintenance used for research. This individual will also assist with research projects as necessary, paying attention to detail and following instruction to provide accurate data collection.

Responsibilities:

• Operating and maintaining various crop production and research equipment: small and large tractors, tractors with loaders, skid steer loaders, large trucks, truck and gooseneck/livestock trailers, tillage equipment, haying equipment, planting equipment, manure and fertilizer spreaders/applicators, silage harvesting and silage bagging equipment, grain harvesting and handling equipment, pesticide spraying equipment, cattle feeding equipment, cattle handling equipment, earth moving equipment, various hand and power tools, and some use of GPS guidance systems included
• Performing maintenance on buildings and premises as needed by mowing fields and roadsides, repairing water lines, hand spraying, building fences, shoveling snow, and other demolition, construction, and cutting trees/brush
• Calibrating and setting-up various planters to plant row crops, forage crops, and research plots 
• Assisting in preparation and maintenance of research plots, performing hand work such as weeding and harvesting and assisting researchers in collecting data and other duties
• Collecting plant, soil, and water samples
• Observing livestock health: Diagnose common illness and administer medications (injections, capsules, etc.) as deemed appropriate and consulting with supervisor or vet if needed
• Using proper and recommended techniques when vaccinating and working/handling animals
• Determining proper amount of feed based upon age, body weight, and general guidelines
• Representing Purdue to customers, the public, government, and other external sources
• Keeping up-to-date with technology and apply new knowledge to your job and others
• Participating in various educational programs and ag center tours as needed

Required:

• High School Diploma/GED
• 4 years of related experience
• Ability to obtain a Cat1a and Cat 14 applicators license within one year of employment
• Obtain certification and/or licensing in regulated areas as needed
• Knowledge of cattle animal husbandry practices and handling
• Basic knowledge of the operation and integration of Ag equipment and electronics and repair, maintenance and fabrication as used for agronomic crops
• Welding, metal fabrication, carpentry, plumbing, painting, mechanical repair and maintenance, troubleshooting and resolving technical problems, equipment operation skills
• Microsoft Office software including, but not limited to Outlook, Excel, and Word knowledge
• Ability to lift and carry 50 to 80 lbs. frequently, and up to 100+ lbs.
• Valid U.S. or Canadian driver’s license
• Valid commercial driver’s license or willing to acquire
• Willingness to participate in weekend rotation for animal care and frequent overtime 

Preferred:

• Postsecondary education

Additional Information:

• Purdue will not sponsor work authorization for this position.
• A background check is required for employment in this position
• This was formerly classified as an operational/technical position; an internal lateral transfer will retain same benefit standing.
• FLSA:  Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement:  Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Purdue University is an EEO/AA employer.  All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply

To Apply for the Crop Production and Research Animal Caretaker Job

Visit the Purdue University Career Center site at https://career8.successfactors.com/careers