Agricultural Specialist- Poultry Research Complex

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is seeking an Agricultural Specialist for the Poultry Research Complex in the CAES-Poultry Science unit. The role supports hands-on care of research animals, prepares rooms for experiments, and assists scientists with study setups.

Monday–Friday 7 am–3:30 pm with weekend/holiday on-call as needed. Responsibilities include maintaining records, operating equipment, and performing facility/safety tasks; driving may be required.

Qualifications

• Understanding of animal research, poultry husbandry and care.
• Ability to perform heavy manual labor and lift 50 pounds.
• Valid driving to support daily duties and site operations.

Responsibilities

• Maintain breeding, feeding, health, and production records for poultry projects.
• Set up facilities and adapt methods/equipment to research needs and animal care compliance.
• Perform routine maintenance of facilities and grounds; assist with on-site research activities.

Skills

Understanding of animal research

Poultry husbandry

Driving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Posting Number:

S15470P

Working Title:

Agricultural Specialist- Poultry Research Complex

Department:

CAES-Poultry Science

About the University of Georgia:

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

College/Unit/Department website:

https://poultry.caes.uga.edu/

Posting Type:

External

Retirement Plan:

TRS

Employment Type:

Employee

Benefits Eligibility:

Benefits Eligible

Full/Part time:

Full Time

Additional Schedule Information:

Monday – Friday 7 am – 3:30 pm, occasional weekends, holidays and on call

Advertised Salary:

Commensurate with Experience

Posting Date:

07/20/2026

Open until filled:

Yes

Proposed Starting Date:

08/31/2026

Location of Vacancy:

Athens Area

EEO Policy Statement:

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement:

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Classification Title:

Farmworker-Ranch I

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

FTE:

1.00

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent

Position Summary:

This incumbent is responsible for taking a hands-on role in operating and maintaining the UGA Poultry Research Complex; providing care for research animals in accordance with UGA Animal Use and Care guidelines; preparing animal rooms for experiments, assisting scientists with research as assigned, cleaning rooms, and facilities following experiments; providing maintenance and repair of facilities and grounds; and other duties as assigned by the Poultry Research Complex Manager.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Understanding of animal research, poultry husbandry, animal care, and general agriculture practices.

Physical Demands:

• Operate, or learn to operate, agricultural equipment.
• Repeatedly lift 50 pounds.
• Work involves preparing, moving, and dispensing feed in 50 pound bags. This position does heavy manual labor on occasion.
• Driving to perform job related duties.

Is driving a responsibility of this position?:

Yes

Is this a Position of Trust?:

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:

No

Does this position require a P-Card? :

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? :

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?:

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications):

Yes

Credit and P-Card policy:

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy:

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Maintain breeding, feeding, health, and production records.
• Set up research facilities, methods, equipment, and procedures to adapt to research needs and animal care and use compliance.

Percentage of time:

70

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Undergraduate student worker training, and supervision as needed;
• Development of facility SOPs, and conducting training with research staff (faculty, staff, graduate, and undergraduate students) on operation and safety procedures.

Percentage of time:

15

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Maintenance of facility and equipment, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and functionality
• Maintain the grounds through grounds keeping such as grass mowing, weed eating, and other duties
• Work with Farm Manager, Assistant Farm Manager, and UGA FMD staff for maintenance and repairs as needed

Percentage of time:

15

Contact Details:

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name:

Kim Kotkiewicz

Recruitment Contact Email:

[e-mail]

Recruitment Contact Phone:

706-542-1351