AgNext Dairy Research Assistant

csusystem; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University’s AgNext unit seeks a Dairy Research Assistant to assist with data management, analysis and field activities in cattle housing, methane monitoring and whole-farm simulations. You will collect and edit data, support lab procedures and help with outreach as part of a multidisciplinary team.

The role requires basic experience with livestock, data entry, and adherence to protocols; candidates should be prepared for outdoor work, lifting up to 50 pounds and occasional early

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; pursuing or maintaining applied research experience preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science or related field preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to follow protocols and maintain accurate records.
• Experience with livestock operations or applied research environments is advantageous.
• Comfort operating technical equipment and performing physically demanding outdoor tasks.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily cattle monitoring, handling and research pen management across pasture and feedlot systems.
• Collect, store and manage environmental data for research projects.
• Develop and edit code in Python and R for data analysis and simulations.
• Record and manage animal intake, performance and methane emissions data using precision livestock tools.
• Support feed sampling, batching, ration prep, bunk management and lab analyses.
• Ensure data quality, enter records accurately, and assist with field outreach and site visits.

Skills

Livestock experience

Data collection

Record-keeping

Outdoors work

Technical equipment

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science or related field

Tools

Laboratory procedures

Data entry systems

Job description

Job Description

Position Summary

AgNext at Colorado State University conducts applied, industry-driven research focused on advancing sustainable and climate-smart livestock production systems. The unit integrates animal science, data analytics, environmental monitoring and precision livestock technologies to deliver practical solutions that improve production efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Research efforts span pasture-based and feedlot systems and emphasize collaboration with industry partners and stakeholders.

AgNext is looking to hire a Research Assistant to support data management and analysis in projects related to cattle housing innovation, methane monitoring and whole farm simulation models. This position assists with data collection, editing, coding, analysis and reporting. The role also supports sample collection, laboratory procedures, data quality control and field outreach activities while contributing to AgNext's research on sustainable livestock production systems. For full consideration, applications must be received by September 21, 2026.

Essential Job Duties

• Assist with daily cattle monitoring, handling and research pen management across pasture and feedlot systems.
• Collect, store and manage environmental data.
• Assist with code development in Python and R for data analysis and whole farm system simulations.
• Collect, record and manage individual animal intake, performance and methane emissions data using precision livestock technologies.
• Support feed sampling, feed batching, ration preparation, bunk management and laboratory analyses associated with research trials.
• Ensure accurate data entry, quality control and proper organization of research records; assist with field outreach activities and research site visits as needed.

Conditions of Employment

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift, move and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
• Willingness to work with livestock in research and production environments.
• May require occasional early morning, evening or weekend work depending on research schedules.

Supervision

The Dairy Research Assistant will work under the supervision of the Animal Sciences – Assistant Professor, Dr. Diego Manriquez Alvarez. The position will collaborate closely with research associates, graduate students, technical staff and industry partners as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience working with livestock, agricultural operations or applied research environments.
• Demonstrated ability to follow protocols, maintain accurate records and work independently with attention to detail.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort operating technical equipment.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in outdoor environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science or a related field.
• Experience with beef cattle production systems, including pasture and/or feedlot management.
• Familiarity with precision feeding systems, methane monitoring technologies or greenhouse gas measurement equipment.
• Experience with data collection, data entry systems and laboratory procedures.
• Strong organizational skills and interest in sustainable livestock production systems.

Salary Range

$16.00/hour

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow and make a lasting impact.

Review our detailed benefits information here.

Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer.