Reproductive R&D Technician

Acufast Ltd; Watrous; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Pension plan with 4% employer match

Professional development and training

Innovative work environment

Job summary

AcuFast is seeking a Reproductive Technician to join our R&D team in Watrous (Manitou), SK. The role focuses on pig reproduction, embryology, and advancing reproductive technologies within a collaborative team.

The candidate will work with oocytes, embryos, semen handling, ultrasonography, and reproductive surgeries, contributing to cutting-edge research and farm operations.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Agriculture, or Biology.
• Experience with pigs and animal handling.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Strong attention to detail and good communication.
• Knowledge of ultrasonography is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Handle, evaluate, and select oocytes and embryos following SOPs.
• Prepare media, supplies, and equipment for embryology procedures.
• Assist with sperm handling, including chilled, sex-sorted, and frozen semen.
• Support pregnancy diagnosis and ultrasonography.
• Assist with animal treatments and medication administration as required.
• Perform animal handling tasks (feeding, cleaning, moving, loading).
• Assist with reproductive surgeries and anesthesia monitoring.
• Support R&D projects, trials, and experiments.
• Assist with AI procedures using cryopreserved germplasm.
• Maintain lab, surgery room, induction area, recovery area, and equipment in clean, organized state.
• Accurately collect, record, and communicate research data with attention to detail.
• Travel to the farm as required with valid driver's license.
• Adapt to evolving SOPs and protocols.
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary team.
• Perform other reproductive, research, and farm duties.

Skills

Pig handling

Organization

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Animal Science / Veterinary Technology degree or diploma

Tools

Ultrasound equipment

Job description

At AcuFast, we believe the best way to predict the future is to create it and that's exactly what we're doing through our innovative reproductive technologies and research programs. As we continue to grow, we're looking for a Reproductive Technician to join our Research & Development team at our Watrous (Manitou), SK location. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about animal reproduction, embryology, and research who wants to contribute to cutting-edge reproductive technologies while working alongside a collaborative and highly skilled team.

This position will include the following responsibilities and day-to-day functions, but is not limited to:

• Handle, evaluate, and select oocytes and embryos following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Prepare and maintain all media, laboratory supplies, and equipment required for embryology procedures.
• Assist with sperm handling and preparation for reproductive activities, including chilled, sex-sorted, and frozen semen.
• Support pregnancy diagnosis, ovulation monitoring, and reproductive health assessments using ultrasonography.
• Assist with animal treatments and medication administration as required.
• Perform animal handling activities, including feeding, cleaning, moving, and loading animals as required.
• Assist with reproductive surgeries, including anesthesia preparation and monitoring, surgical support, post-operative recovery, and maintaining sterile procedures.
• Support the R&D team with research projects, trials, and experimental activities.
• Assist with artificial insemination procedures using cryopreserved germplasm.
• Maintain the laboratory, surgery room, induction area, recovery area, and associated equipment to the highest standards of cleanliness, organization, and biosecurity.
• Accurately collect, record, and communicate research and production data with strong attention to detail.
• Work independently while travelling to the farm as required, maintaining a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Adapt to evolving Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), research protocols, workflows, and scheduling requirements.
• Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary research and farm team.
• Perform other related reproductive, research, and general farm duties as required.

The successful candidate would ideally possess the following experience and qualifications:

• Previous experience working with pigs and animal handling.
• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively within a team.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities, procedures, and research protocols.
• Degree or diploma in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Agriculture, Biology, or a related field would be considered an asset.
• Experience in pig reproduction, embryology, andrology, reproductive research, or animal surgery would be considered a strong asset.
• Experience with ultrasonography would be considered an asset.
• Shares AcuFast's core values of Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Excellence.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonus program.
• Registered pension plan with a 4% employer match.
• Opportunities to work with advanced reproductive technologies and research.
• Ongoing learning and professional development.
• Supportive, collaborative, and innovative work environment.

About Us

AcuFast provides pork producers across North America and worldwide with breeding stock and innovative genetic and reproduction solutions. We work alongside pork producers and industry partners to build the future of pork production together. It is a future where cutting-edge science and proven farm practices meet, ensuring the health of pigs, producers, and consumers for generations to come. We empower our people by supporting and encouraging them to grow personally as well as professionally. We have a team of keen and innovative thinkers. You will love it here.

Create the Future with AcuFast

While we appreciate all the applications we receive, only candidates under consideration will be contacted. AcuFast is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration. To know more about us visit - www.acufastswine.com