Dairy Enterprise Research Technician

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville School of Agriculture is seeking a Dairy Enterprise Research Technician. This is a twelve-month position and will be funded by the Dairy Innovation Hub (https://dairyinnovationhub.wisc.edu/).  This position is 75% research support and 25% training/teaching.

75% - RESEARCH RELATED ACTIVITES

• Collect, maintain and manage accurate data for research o Animal production data such as milk weights, body weights, etc. o Feed and nutrition data such as feed mixing, delivery, intake, etc. o Other research data as required in research protocols
• Use dairy herd management software (i.e., DC305), dairy ration software, and other software to collect and manage research data
• Assist in the preparation of work plans and protocols to meet research needs
• Train employees working with research animals and equipment
• Monitor and evaluate the health, performance and well-being of the dairy animals
• Ensure compliance with animal care and IACUC rules and regulations, as well as handling animals according to animal welfare protocols and best management practices
• Maintain inventory of supplies for research projects and for routine use on the dairy farm Assist in ordering supplies and equipment needed for research in a timely manner according to university purchasing guidelines and in collaboration with lead researchers
• Complete all required research reports in a timely manner
• Some evening/weekend work may be expected, dependent on the research projects being undertaken 
• Work with Dairy Enterprise Manager, Pioneer Farm Director, faculty and staff to envision new opportunities for Pioneer Farm and activities associated with the Dairy Innovation Hub 
• Demonstrate commitment to the purpose, vision, and values of the Dairy Innovation Hub, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and the well-being of Wisconsin and its residents
• Other research related activities as assigned

25% - TRAINING RELATED ACTIVITIES

• Assist with supervision and training undergraduate students in the various facets of the Dairy Enterprise at Pioneer Farm, including but not limited to, milking, feeding, and calf care according to standard operating procedures for research and class projects
• Discuss weekly work schedules and research activities with faculty, staff and students
• Assign tasks and supervise activities of research and project workers to ensure verbal and written instructions are carried out accurately and in a timely manner
• Maintain and update all standard operating procedures for the dairy enterprise
• Assist with supervision of undergraduate and graduate student workers as needed
• Ensure the safety and security of the dairy facilities, animals and equipment
• Provide professional assistance and support to faculty with courses and laboratories
• Other training related activities as assigned