Animal Research Technician

United States

Full Time

Entry Level

Job Summary

As a Research Technician, you will support the execution of laboratory-based research, quality testing, and corporate innovation studies, including product evaluations. Responsibilities include collecting data and samples from swine, poultry, and ruminants; performing analytical testing; accurately recording and managing data; and maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment.

This role also provides support for all research activities conducted at Ralco’s swine research facilities. A strong commitment to scientific integrity, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment are essential for success in this position.

This job description is not meant to be all inclusive and duties may vary based on departmental and company needs

Job Responsibilities

JKCI Research Farm Responsibilities
- Research Trial Execution
  - Execute research protocols and collect data
  - Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel
  - Ensure compliance with safety regulations
  - Clean and disinfect barns after each research group to prepare for subsequent group
- Laboratory Activities
  - Maintain clean and well-organized workspace
  - Input data into databases
  - Prepare samples for external laboratory testing and distribute results
  - Perform analysis on customer and internal samples

Balaton Swine Research Barn Responsibilities
- Assist the Swine Research Lead in all barn upkeep and research activities.
- Animal Husbandry
  - Walk pens and observe animal health
  - Ensure feed and water is available for all livestock
  - Monitor barn environment
  - Assist in receiving pigs and shipping from both nursery and finishing barns
- Research Trial Execution
  - Maintain accurate records per experiment
  - Collect measurements described in research protocols
  - Basic knowledge of Big Dutchman feed system
- Biosecurity and Animal Health
  - Follow and ensure all other staff and visitors follow biosecurity guidelines
  - Administer medications and vaccines
  - Communicate with cooperative production manager regarding animal health concerns
- Upkeep of facilities
  - Perform minor repairs
  - Power wash barn and disinfect barn between each set of animals
- Have PQA Plus and TQA certification or be willing to obtain
Aligns with RALCO’s Values and Purpose
- Values: Courageous Curiosity, Driven to Deliver, Master your Craft, Root for the Team, People Matter Most, Keep It Simple
- Purpose: Ralco creates effective natural solutions that address agriculture’s greatest challenges

Required Skills/Abilities

Basic lab skills: some experience or familiarity with laboratory techniques, and handling laboratory equipment is preferred, ability to observe details at close range
Basic animal handling: some experience with handling various livestock, but specifically swine is strongly preferred
Attention to detail with a high level of accuracy, concentration and precision in conducting experiments and maintaining records
Flexibility and availability outside of business hours including a rotating weekend schedule
Computer proficiency in MS Office and SharePoint
Strong verbal communication skills
Team player who can also execute tasks independently

Job Requirements
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; coursework or an associate’s degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology or animal science or equivalent experience preferred
Experience: Laboratory experience with knowledge of chemistry, biology, and animal science; must be comfortable working with various livestock, especially swine.
Working Hours: Weekday work hours include a weekend rotation in the barns to provide animal care and do daily chores
Location: Jon Knochenmus Center for Innovation, Marshall, MN and research barns in Balaton, MN
Travel: Requires travel between local Ralco locations

Physical Requirements

Physical Activity	Rarely	Occasionally	Frequently	Constantly
% of time	*0% to 25%*	*26% to 50%*	*51% to 75%*	*76% to 100%*
Carrying ≥ 20 lbs.				X
Climbing			X
Driving			X
Finger Dexterity				X
Hearing				X
Kneeling			X
Lifting ≥ 20 lbs.				X
Pulling ≥ 20 lbs.				X
Pushing ≥ 20 lbs.				X
Reaching				X
Seeing				X
Sitting		X
Standing				X
Twisting				X
Typing		X
Walking				X

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform key work duties.

**This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship; Also, RALCO Nutrition Inc. DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program**

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Are you 18 years of age or older?*

Are you legally eligible today to work in the United States?*

Please describe any experience you have raising or taking care of animals.*

Have you ever taken care of pigs?*

How old were the pigs you cared for? Describe what care you provided and where.*

This position requires working a weekend rotation to care for animals on the weekends. Are you able to work Monday - Friday for 40 hours a week including weekend hours when it is your turn?*

Are you able to speak, read and write fluently in English?*

This job will require you to drive to our research barns in Balaton, MN. A valid driver's license is a requirement for this job. Do you have a valid/current driver's license?*

Have you ever used a power washer to clean out barns? If so, please describe your experience.*

Do you have experience vaccinating animals?*

Do you have any laboratory experience?*

Please share what experience you have in a laboratory setting.*

Based upon the job description, are you capable of performing the duties and responsibilities of this position including the physical requirements as identified in the job description?*

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Animal Research Technician

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