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Job Description
Job Details
Job Title:
Agricultural Specialist II•Dairy Farm
Location:
Ames, IA, Midwest United States, USA
Company:
Iowa State University
Industry Sector:
Production/Farming
Industry Type:
Education and Extension
Career Type:
Farm & Ranch Operations/Herdsperson/On Farm
Job Type:
Full Time
Minimum Years Experience Required:
2
Salary:
$45,000•$56,000
$45,000.00•56,000.00 YEAR
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Criteria:
Career Type:
Farm & Ranch Operations/Herdsperson/On Farm
Country:
USA
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The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking an Agricultural Specialist II•Team Lead to support dairy operations at the ISU Dairy Farm. This is a unique opportunity to work in a university setting that combines production agriculture, applied research, teaching, and student engagement while contributing to the mission of a land-grant institution.
The Team Lead oversees evening operations and helps ensure high-quality animal care, efficient dairy production, and successful support of teaching and research activities. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work with cattle, leading a team, solving problems, and working in a collaborative environment alongside faculty, researchers, and students.
Responsibilities include:
Oversee evening crew staff and student employees to ensure timely completion of milking, herd care, sanitation, and daily operations
Train team members in dairy production practices, animal handling, safety procedures, and research protocols
Coordinate with daytime staff and farm management to maintain consistent herd care and farm operations
Monitor animal health, respond to emergencies, and troubleshoot operational issues
Support applied research activities and collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, and researchers
Maintain records related to animal health, production data, equipment maintenance, and research activities
Operate and maintain farm equipment and facilities, including tractors, skid steers, and milking systems
Utilize herd management software and Microsoft Office tools for data tracking and reporting
Assist with budgeting, inventory management, and procurement of feed, cattle, and supplies
If you thrive in a hands-on environment where no two days are the same, this is an exciting opportunity to be part of a research and teaching dairy farm. You will contribute to student learning experiences, support organizations such as the Dairy Science and Veterinary Medicine clubs, and play an important role in advancing animal science programs at Iowa State University.
This position offers a consistent Monday-Friday evening schedule (approximately 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.) with shared rotating weekend coverage, providing predictable work hours and flexibility for daytime commitments.
Iowa State University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience with milking procedures and equipment
Experience working with livestock or large animals and familiarity with animal health monitoring and treatment
Familiarity with general agricultural equipment operation and maintenance
Leadership or team lead experience
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.
This position will be open until filled.
