Animal Caretaker

Summary

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor, the Animal Caretaker will attend to the welfare and environment of the chickens and adhere to industry animal welfare practices and procedures. They will monitor and report the conditions of the barns where the birds reside to ensure a safe and productive environment. In addition, the Animal Caretaker will perform light maintenance on facilities and equipment.

Key Responsibilities

Ensure the security of chickens and the premises by keeping all facility doors locked to protect birds from predators, external climate and unauthorized personnel

Document completed tasks on a daily and weekly basis

Observe bird health and proper supply of feed, light, air and water daily

Properly collect and dispose of mortality

Place chickens back into the system when the lights turn off

Walk rows of chickens and check egg lines for egg blockages

Observe and complete the daily cleaning of manure belt equipment

Sweep and clean different areas of the poultry houses

Maintain and monitor ventilation systems to ensure proper ventilation in the chicken houses

Safely operate required equipment and tools

Follow all company safety policies and practices

Demonstrate an understanding of laying hen husbandry

Comprehend and operate the automated environmental and egg flow computers

Continuously monitor bird health and production of laying hens in houses reporting findings to Production Manager/Supervisor

Perform tasks associated with moving birds in and out of houses to include handling bird moving equipment and cleaning with pneumatic or pressurized water

Monitor bird service activities, i.e. birds in/out, with an emphasis on animal welfare

Follow all company policies and procedures

Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

High School diploma, GED, or equivalency preferred

1 year experience in agricultural environment and animal care is preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Must be self-directed and organized

Ability to track and document all activities with correct forms and paperwork

Strong communication skills so that others will understand both verbally and in writing

Working knowledge of agricultural operations preferred

Detail oriented

Ability to interact with individuals from diverse ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds

Record of good attendance with a flexible schedule

Basic reading, writing, and math skills

Positive attitude and ability to work with a team

Must enjoy working in close contact with animals

Physical Demands

Stand and walk constantly; grip, grasp, push, pull, reach, bend, stoop, lift up to 10 pounds frequently; sit, climb, lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Work Environment

Frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and airborne particles. Temperature varies in relation to the outside temperature. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Proper personal protective equipment will be required during certain working conditions.

The starting rate for this position is $17.33, incremental increases are earned through developing skills and qualifications.

Ask the Human Resources Representative about potential bonuses.