Assistant Manager, MALC Ruminant Operations

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center; United States; On-site; USD 24,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Job summary

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is seeking an Assistant Manager for MALC Ruminant Operations. The role splits 60% toward MALC Ruminant Operations and 40% toward Meat Laboratory Operations through December 2026, transitioning to 100% focus on MALC Ruminant Operations in January 2027.

Responsibilities include managing beef and small ruminant herds, maintaining compliance with IACUC/AAALAC/USDA, and supporting teaching, research, and Extension programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED and 4+ years of farm operations experience OR bachelor’s degree and 2+ years’ farm operations experience.
• Hands-on experience working with livestock and/or farm operations.
• Ability to work in both office and farm settings, including animals and equipment in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with all aspects of beef and small ruminant herd management and nutrition, reproduction, health, welfare, and production programs.
• Maintain records related to animal health, production, breeding, inventory, and research activities.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements including IACUC, AAALAC, and USDA.
• Assist with budgets, equipment inventories, and staff training.

Skills

Livestock handling

Record keeping

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in animal science or related field

High school diploma or GED with 4+ years experience

Tools

Farm management software

Equipment operation (skid steer, tractor)

USDA/AAALAC compliance knowledge

Job description

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Job Title: Assistant Manager, MALC Ruminant Operations Department: FAES | Agricultural Operations Administration

Job Description

As part of CFAES, the MALC Ruminant Operations Manager manages operations supporting teaching, research, and Extension programs. This is a 12-month term position with responsibilities allocated 60% to Ruminant operations and 40% to Meat Laboratory operations through December 2026. Beginning in January 2027, the position will transition to a 100% focus on MALC Ruminant Operations.

MALC Ruminant Operations (50% through Dec 2026, then 90% January – term end date)

Assist with all aspects of beef and small ruminant herd/flock management at the MALC and the satellite beef herd at Don Scott, including nutrition, reproduction, health, welfare, and production programs. Support breeding programs, calving and lambing schedules, and genetic improvement initiatives. Maintain accurate records related to animal health, production, breeding, inventory, and research activities. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including records for daily care as required by IACUC, AAALAC, and USDA. Follow animal care standards, biosecurity protocols, and environmental regulations. Assist with inventories of feed, medications, equipment, and supplies. Track expenditures and identify opportunities for operational efficiencies. Assist with onboarding, Recruiting, training, and provide support to student employees and support staff. Coordinate daily operations supporting teaching, Extension, and research programs. Provide backup support for other operations managers during absences and periods of increased workload.

Meat Laboratory Operations (40% through December 2026)

Assist with day-to-day operations of the Meat Laboratory in support of teaching, research, and Extension activities as directed by the Meat Lab Manager. Assists with scheduling facility use, livestock processing activities, and laboratory support services. Assists with monitoring and maintaining laboratory equipment, operational supplies, and inventories. Under the direction of the Meat Lab Manager, ensures compliance with food safety, sanitation, workplace safety, and university standards including USDA inspections. Support faculty-led research projects and instructional activities. Assist in coordinating livestock movement and processing schedules. Assist with budget management, purchasing, and operational planning. Support special events, outreach programs, demonstrations, and Extension programming.

Compliance and Biosecurity

Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding animal welfare, food safety, and environmental standards. Work closely with the Biosecurity Manager to develop and enforce biosecurity protocols. Train staff and students on biosecurity, food safety, and operational best practices. Promote a culture of safety, compliance, and accountability.

Education, Research, and Innovation

Support academic programs through experiential learning opportunities and hands‑on instruction. Coordinate and support research projects, including data collection, protocol compliance, and reporting. Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to advance research, teaching, and outreach goals. Contribute to innovation and continuous improvement in beef production, meat processing, and facility management practices.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED and 4+ years of experience in farm operations or related field OR bachelors in a related field and 2+ years’ experience in farm operations or related field. Hands‑on experience working with livestock and/or farm operations. Ability to work in both office and farm settings, including animals and equipment in all weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in animal science, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, or a related field. 3-5 years’ experience with ruminant operations. Experience with general equipment operations and maintenance (i.e. Skid steer, tractor, etc.). Familiarity with farm management software. Knowledge of livestock nutrition and feed quality standards. Experience leading, training, or mentoring employees or students. Strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills.

Additional Information

This job profile is Farm Coordinator 4 (T4 level) on the career roadmap.

Salary Range:$17.50-$22.86/hour The offer for this position will fall within the positions pay range based on internal equity, unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications.

Location: Waterman - Multispecies Animal Learning Complex (1321)

Position Type: Term (Fixed Term)

Scheduled Hours: 40

Shift: First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

This position will accept applications until end of day on 10/11/2026.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.

Ohio State benefits give you options to take care of what matters most to you — and opportunities to make adjustments as your life and needs change, including:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

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