Animal Caretaker II

Daybreak Foods; Street; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Animal Caretaker II to ensure the welfare of chickens in a dynamic agricultural setting. In this role, you will monitor barn conditions, maintain equipment, and ensure the safety of the animals while adhering to industry practices. The position requires a self-directed individual with strong communication skills and a passion for animal care. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a team committed to animal welfare and sustainable practices in a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• 1 year experience in agricultural environment and animal care preferred.
• Ability to perform essential duties satisfactorily.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and report barn conditions for safety and productivity.
• Ensure the security of chickens and maintain facility cleanliness.
• Observe bird health and manage feeding and watering.

Skills

Self-directed

Organized

Strong communication skills

Detail-oriented

Ability to track and document activities

Enjoy working closely with animals

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

Skid loader

Job description

The starting rate for this position is $19.07, with incremental increases earned through developing skills and qualifications.

Summary

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor, the Animal Caretaker II will attend to the welfare and environment of the chickens, adhering to industry animal welfare practices and procedures. They will monitor and report barn conditions to ensure a safe and productive environment, and perform light maintenance on facilities and equipment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Ensure the security of chickens and the premises by keeping all facility doors locked to protect birds from predators, external climate, and unauthorized personnel.
2. Document completed tasks daily and weekly.
3. Observe bird health and supply of feed, light, air, and water daily.
4. Properly collect and dispose of mortality.
5. Return chickens to the system when the lights turn off.
6. Check egg lines for egg blockages during walks through the poultry houses.
7. Clean manure belt equipment daily.
8. Sweep and clean different areas of the poultry houses.
9. Maintain and monitor ventilation systems for proper airflow.
10. Safely operate required equipment and tools.
11. Follow all safety policies and practices.
12. Understand laying hen husbandry and operate environmental control systems.
13. Monitor bird health and production, reporting findings to the supervisor.
14. Handle tasks related to moving birds, including using equipment and cleaning with pressurized water.
15. Monitor animal welfare during bird service activities.
16. Follow all company policies and procedures.
17. Perform other duties as assigned, including monitoring environmental computers and manure storage areas, and assisting with maintenance and cleaning tasks.
18. Operate skid loader as directed and assist with emergency alarms.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Education and Experience

• High School diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.
• 1 year experience in agricultural environment and animal care preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Self-directed and organized.
• Ability to track and document activities accurately.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Working knowledge of agricultural operations preferred.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to interact with diverse backgrounds.
• Good attendance with a flexible schedule.
• Basic reading, writing, and math skills.
• Positive attitude and teamwork skills.
• Enjoy working closely with animals.

Physical Demands

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

Work Environment

Exposure to moving mechanical parts and airborne particles; temperature varies; moderate noise level; personal protective equipment required during certain conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. For more information, review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.