Agricultural Assistant - Ontario Beef Research Centre

Ontario University Athletics; Guelph; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A university in Ontario is seeking a temporary full-time position in beef animal husbandry, responsible for managing production and research needs, including feeding and care of cattle. The role requires a two-year diploma in Agriculture, experience in a commercial beef operation, and the ability to work independently or in a team. Candidates should be adaptable, detail-oriented, and hold a valid Class G driver’s license. This position runs from 01/02/2026 to 04/30/2027.

Qualifications

• 2 years of relevant work experience in a modern commercial beef operation.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must possess a valid Class G driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Manage feeding and nutritional requirements for beef cattle.
• Operate and maintain farming equipment.
• Ensure facility cleanliness and maintenance.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Adaptability

Dependability

Attention to detail

Education

Two Year diploma in Agriculture

Tools

Tractors

Skid steers

Computerized feeding systems

Job description

Location

Ariss, CA, N0B 1B0

Primary Category Page

Staff and Management

Division

Research Facilities

Requisition ID

1964

Department

OMAFRA Research Facilities
This position is covered by the Collective Agreement with the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation District 35 - Technician/Administrative/Research/Agricultural

Temporary full-time from 01/02/2026 to 04/30/2027
Temporary Absence of the Regular Incumbent

To be considered as an internal applicant you must apply on the internal Career Page at the University of Guelph.

General Purpose

Reporting to the Research Facility Foreperson, the incumbent is accountable for all aspects of Beef animal husbandry, production and research needs for cow/calf, feedlot and pasture management. This position will require current working knowledge and skills identifying and addressing beef specific diseases, knowledge of proper treatments and drug handling, meat withdrawal times, record keeping, penalties; handling and restraint techniques; understanding cow behaviour with a new calf, calving procedures, identifying calving problems, treatment of neo natal calf, identification, and registration requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Feed management, storage, delivery and managing nutritional requirements for all ages of beef cattle
• Operation and maintenance of feeding equipment and computerized feeding systems, such as manure handling, production related equipment, operation of tractors and skid steers, etc.
• Experience in the safe operation of large trucks and trailers
• Routine facility maintenance and upkeep, and maintaining a high standard of cleanliness in barns, labs, offices, and shared facilities.
• Following research procedures and animal utilization protocols, preparing, and feeding of research feeds
• Knowledge to work in accordance with all Health and Safety precautions and procedures

Requirements

• Two Year diploma in Agriculture that is a recognized advanced training Diploma.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Adaptable, dependable, a quick learner, and highly organized
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative to learn, understand and complete all elements of the role, with ability to work well independently and with other staff in a team setting
• Must be safety conscious, computer literate and attentive to detail
• First Aid and CPR certification preferred

2 years of relevant work experience. This experience must include a full range of responsibilities encountered in a modern, commercial beef operation. Applicants with equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

A valid Class G driver’s license minimum with higher license endorsements or ability to obtain is required. The incumbent is expected to work in all areas of responsibility at the Beef facility as assigned. Normal work week is 40 hours; individual shifts are 8 hours and includes working weekends and holidays as scheduled. The incumbent is also expected to be flexible to cover workloads during peak periods, weekends, vacation schedules or emergency staff shortages. All positions require physical strength and stamina.

Employee Type: Regular
Position Number: 10447102
Classification: OSSTF/TARA, District 35 Salary:Band 5
OSSTF/TARA Wage Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 12/03/2025
Close Date: 12/17/2025