Animal Caretaker II - Dairy

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Job Description:

The Iowa State University Dairy is seeking a motivated and responsible Animal Caretaker II to join our team and support the daily care and management of our dairy herd. This position is essential to maintaining high standards of animal welfare supporting research and teaching and ensuring smooth farm operations.

What Youll Do

• Feed water and monitor dairy cattle responding to health and welfare needs.

• Assist with calving breeding vaccinations and other herd health tasks.

• Move and transport cows and calves as needed.

• Operate farm equipment such as tractors skid steers and telehandlers.

• Clean barns bedding packs and maintain manure and feed systems.

• Support facility upkeep including routine repairs and coordination with contractors.

• Pitch in with seasonal work like silage harvest mowing snow removal and grounds care.

• Assist with milking operations when needed.

• Help prepare facilities for student activities research and tour groups.

Why Youll Love This Job

If youre passionate about dairy farming or the dairy industry this role offers the chance to make a real impact. Youll work with a dedicated team to care for animals support hands-on learning for students and contribute to agricultural research. Every day brings something newwhether its assisting with a calving moving cattle for facility repairs or preparing the barn for visitors. If you enjoy variety teamwork and meaningful work in a farm settingand bring a strong work ethic and willingness to learnyoull find this position both rewarding and impactful.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Hours/Shift: This is a daytime shift. Hours may be somewhat flexible with some shifts occasionally starting as early as 4 am.

This position will be open until filled. Full consideration will be given to candidates who apply before September 3rd 2025.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of standard operating procedures for laboratory animal care or livestock care as applicable.

Knowledge of federal state and/or university regulations regarding animal care and use in research and teaching.

Knowledge of disease transmission prevention and control in animals.

Knowledge of reproductive characteristics and behavior in the species.

Skill in maintaining accurate records.

Skill in administering medication and obtaining biological samples.

Skill in construction and maintenance of related equipment and facilities.

Ability to train and direct the work of other employees.

Ability to understand communicate and execute oral and written instructions.

Ability to recognize changes in conditions of animals and animal room environment malfunctioning equipment and unsafe conditions.

Ability to lift and/or move 50-100 pounds.

Ability to perform physical labor such as restraining animals loading and unloading supplies and animals and standing for prolonged periods of time.

Ability to work around noise dust odors fumes and extremes in temperature.

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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 Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process please email or call or Toll Free: 1-.

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

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