Agricultural Assistant job Moscow ID, USA

Job Title: Agricultural Assistant

Location: Moscow, ID, USA

Company: University of Idaho - College of Agricultural & Life Sciences

Employee Category: Classified

Pay Range: $16.80 per hour (Higher depending on experience and education). Includes a 5% Night Shift Differential.

FTE: 1.0 (Full Time)

Position Summary:

The University of Idaho's College of Agricultural & Life Sciences is seeking an Agricultural Assistant for their Moscow location. This role primarily involves the care and maintenance of approximately 120 Holstein cows in a double 6 herringbone parlor once per day. The Agricultural Assistant will be responsible for various duties related to milking, equipment maintenance, facility cleaning, and more. This is a night shift position with alternating shifts every 3 months, with night shifts from 7:00 pm to 3:00 am and day shifts from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance on milking and milk storage equipment.
• Clean and repair milking equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness of milking parlor, holding pen, maternity, and hospital areas.
• Organize and manage inventory of milking-related parts and materials.
• Train and supervise students in milking facility operations and animal handling.
• Identify and treat udder health issues.
• Assist cows during parturition.
• Collaborate with researchers in gathering milk samples and experimental data.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with animal husbandry.
• Proficiency in dairy equipment operation (milking machines, computers, and milking parlor equipment).
• Knowledge of general animal care practices related to cattle and safety protocols.
• Experience working with animals and outdoors.
• Ability to maintain complete and accurate records.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the dairy industry and a willingness to work in a team environment.
• Familiarity with operating procedures at the University of Idaho Dairy Center.
• Background in animal science research and education.
• Knowledge of good laboratory practice standards.
• Previous experience with milking operations.
• Ability to follow specific instructions, work independently, and adapt to changing circumstances.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

• Ability to bend, scoop, lift, and move items weighing up to 80 lbs.
• Competence in safe cattle handling according to established protocols.

Application Information:

• Posting Number: SP004130P
• Posting Date: 09/19/2023
• Closing Date: Open Until Filled (First consideration given to applications received by October 4, 2023)
• Special Instructions: To be considered, please submit a "Letter of Qualification" addressing each of the minimum and preferred qualifications listed above. Resumes alone will not be accepted.
• Background Check: Final candidates must pass a criminal background check.

To Apply:

To apply for this position, please visit: University of Idaho Job Posting

EEO Statement:

The University of Idaho is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in our workplace.