AgNext Dairy Research Assistant

Colorado State University; United States; On-site; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

CSU perks

Job summary

Colorado State University seeks a Research Assistant to support data management and analysis on cattle housing, methane monitoring, and whole-farm simulations. You will collect and curate environmental and livestock data, assist with lab procedures, and contribute to multidisciplinary research aimed at sustainable livestock production.

The role involves outdoor work, data entry accuracy, and collaboration with faculty, students, and industry partners.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Experience with livestock, agricultural operations or applied research is preferred.
• Ability to follow protocols and maintain accurate records.

Responsibilities

• Assist daily cattle monitoring across pasture and feedlot systems.
• Collect, store, and manage environmental data.
• Develop and apply code in Python and R for analysis and simulations.
• Record animal intake, performance, and methane data with precision livestock tech.
• Support feed sampling, batching, bunk management and lab analyses.
• Ensure data quality and assist with field outreach and site visits.

Skills

Livestock experience

Data management

Attention to detail

Python

R

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Python

R

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. 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.

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