AgNext Dairy Research Assistant

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

Job summary

Colorado State University’s AgNext seeks a Research Assistant to support data management and analysis in cattle housing, methane monitoring, and whole‑farm simulations. The role involves data collection, editing, and reporting in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

You will assist with coding in Python and R, laboratory procedures, field outreach, and research site visits, contributing to sustainable livestock production systems.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Experience with livestock, agricultural operations, or applied research.
• Ability to follow protocols, maintain accurate records, and work independently.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort with technical equipment.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily cattle monitoring, handling, and research pen management.
• 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 animal intake, performance, and methane data.
• Support feed sampling, batching, ration preparation, bunk management, and laboratory analyses.
• Ensure data entry accuracy and assist with field outreach and research site visits.

Skills

Livestock experience

Data collection

Attention to detail

Mechanical aptitude

Outdoor work ability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science

Job description

Fort Collins, CO

Full time

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. (http://hr.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2021/01/benefits-summary-afap.pdf)

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. (http://hr.colostate.edu/total-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. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.

Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU’s perks and purpose. (https://hr.colostate.edu/prospective-employees/)

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