RESEARCH SPECIALIST SR - Foremost Dairy Farm

Hiring Department

Foremost Dairy Farm - Central Missouri Research, Extension, and Education Center (CM-REEC)

Job Description

This position will work closely with the Central MO Research, Extension, and Education Center (REEC) Assistant Director of Livestock and the Foremost Dairy Farm Manager to conduct livestock performance research, livestock feed, milk production research, and demonstration projects. This position will also work closely with MU Research Staff, graduate students, and undergraduate students to accomplish their research and education goals in an efficient manner while providing care for livestock. This position may require work to be performed outside of normal work hours which may include evenings and weekends.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Possesses conceptual knowledge of theories, practices and procedures within the Research function
• Applies general research knowledge developed through education and experiences
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills
• Regularly lift up to 75 lbs

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with Central MO REEC Asst. Director of Livestock Operations and the Foremost Dairy Farm manager to conduct livestock and milk production research and demonstration projects.
• Assist MU faculty and staff with dairy cattle management, feeding schedules, establishment of forages, and pasture grazing studies.
• Work with Dairy Farm manager to facilitate service repair as needed, and general readiness of farm equipment and livestock feeding equipment.
• Feed and milk animals according to schedule and manage manure handling facilities.
• Work with Farm Manager and Veterinary Medicine to treat sick animals.
• Work with Asst. Director and Farm Manager to create and assign tasks for student workers and provide oversight for their duties.
• Work with MU research staff and graduate students to accomplish their research goals in an efficient manner.
• Assist the Asst. Director, Farm Manager, and other staff in outreach programs including conferences, workshops, field days, and tours.
• Assist with other functions in the Central MO REEC as needed.

Salary

Salary Range: $50,367-$79,354

GGS Grade: 9E

University Title: Senior Research Specialist

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Shift

8 am – 5 pm Mon – Fri with some flexible days to cover weekend shifts as needed monthly.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Plant Sciences, or comparable field of study providing an understanding of forage, silage, feed production and quality measures for livestock feed is preferred.
• Experience in an agricultural research related field, operating and repairing agricultural machinery, and working with livestock, including feeding and treating sick animals.
• Experience establishing and harvesting feed with an emphasis on quality measures for milk production
• Currently have or willing to obtian a Commercial Driver's License

Application Materials

Application, Cover Letter, Resume

Contact information for references will be required for hire.

Columbia Missouri Information

Columbia, Mo., is known as an ideal college town, combining small-town comforts, community spirit and low cost of living with big-city culture, activities and resources. Home to nationally renowned public schools and other colleges and educational centers, Columbia is packed with restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen annual cultural festivals.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy shall not be interpreted in such a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or the recruiting rights of military organizations associated with the Armed Forces or the Department of Homeland Security of the United States of America. For more information, call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-7976.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

Know Your Rights

To read more about Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) please use the following links:

• Know Your Rights English Version
• Know Your Rights Spanish Version

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