Position Title:Agricultural Assistant II – Dairy

Job Group:Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:High school diploma or equivalent and 3 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:Experience in agriculture or farming

Knowledge of general practices and operation of equipment

Knowledge or experience around large animals

Knowledge of dairy cattle management

Job Description:

The Iowa State University Dairy is seeking an Agricultural Assistant II to support the daily operations of the ISU Dairy Farm. Working under limited supervision, this role involves performing standard procedures for the care and milking of dairy cattle, as well as assisting dairy researchers and supervisors in collecting data related to animal research. Responsibilities include mechanical and maintenance tasks, with a primary focus on daily dairy operations such as milking, bedding, stall maintenance, and general animal care and housekeeping. The position requires assisting in preparing facilities for research and teaching projects, maintaining the dairy buildings and equipment in good working order, and contributing to the overall care and management of the dairy unit. Independent judgment is essential for assessing, prioritizing, and scheduling tasks. Occasionally, the role involves training students and part-time or full-time employees.

The farm is home to approximately 400 dairy cows and 400 heifers, producing and shipping about 29,000 pounds of milk per day to Prairie Farms. It also serves as the Dairy Research and Teaching Unit, providing a dynamic environment for research, teaching, and extension programs aimed at advancing the dairy industry through innovative research and comprehensive educational efforts.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in cross-training and gaining valuable experience in dairy operations while supporting cutting-edge research. While not directly conducting research, the Agricultural Assistant II plays a crucial role in supporting staff working on diverse projects across various scientific disciplines, including Reproduction, Nutrition, and Physiology. With most of the herd involved in research programs, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to the advancement of the dairy industry. Employees will have the opportunity to work as part of a collaborative team that values input and engagement. Each team member is encouraged to identify issues, share ideas, and actively participate in finding solutions. The energizing and empowering work environment ensures that every employee feels valued and has a say in the day-to-day operations. Additionally, the position supports the education of students and fosters a sense of community where all members work together toward shared goals.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Position will be open until filled.

Example of Duties

+ Assists in routine movement and milking of the lactational herd, research groupings, milk sampling and newborn calf care.

+ Performs routine bedding management of lactational herd.

+ 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 students and employees.

+ Assists in 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.

+ Performs 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 wagon.

+ Ensures that safety procedures are followed.

+ Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

+ Must be able to work all shifts including night, weekend and holiday.

+ Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and background.

+ Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value.

Level Guidelines- Career-level position demonstrating proficiency and knowledge of related competencies- Works under direct to general supervision and may receive guidance on more complex assignments- Follows established procedures for work assignments, and completes assignments which are semi-routine and may be atypical in nature- Applies thorough knowledge to respond to inquiries and requests- Able to resolve most problems and issues and respond to requests without escalation- Provides guidance to students- May provide supervision to one to two other staff or lead a small work team

Appointment Type:Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period

Time Type:Full time

Pay Grade:PS805

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae2) Letter of Application/Cover LetterIf you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.Why Choose ISU?Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans- Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans- Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)- Life insurance and long-term disability- Flexible Spending Accounts- Various voluntary benefits and discounts- Employee Assistance Program- Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date: September 16, 2024

Posting Close Date:

Job Requisition Number:R15520

By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive?land-grant?mission of education, research, extension and outreach, we produce scholars whose ideas change the world. And through Innovate at Iowa State , we provide innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities.

Iowa State University is a welcoming, global, and culturally diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. Campus community members have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to engaging with each other respectfully as outlined in the university’s Principles of Community (https://www.iastate.edu/diversity-and-inclusion/principles-community) . Iowa State recognizes that diverse intellectual and philosophical perspectives are vital to innovation, critical thinking skills, and a dynamic academic community that fosters the land-grant ideals of putting science, technology, and human creativity to work.

All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check.

Iowa State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against. Inquiries can be directed to the Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, 515 294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu .

If you have questions about the application process please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll-Free at 1-877-477-7485 . Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email employment@iastate.edu or call (515) 294-4800 or Toll-Free: (877) 477-7485 . TTY users are welcome to use the Iowa Relay Service number by dialing 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2942 .

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources (https://www.hr.iastate.edu/careers/compensation) website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.