Hatchery Associate

Aviagen; Crossville (TN); On-site; USD 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

Aviagen is seeking a Pedigree Hatchery Associate in Crossville, TN. You will transfer eggs from setters to hatchers, prepare birds for sexing, and maintain strict biosecurity and sanitation standards to support our pedigree breeding program.

Daily duties include receiving eggs, candle fertility, and monitoring hatch rates while adhering to company SOPs. Applicants must not own any birds due to disease risk, and the schedule runs Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform moderate physical work and stand for extended periods.
• Comfort with fast-paced environment and shifting priorities.
• Reliable attendance and commitment to high-quality work.

Responsibilities

• Maintain strict biosecurity and animal welfare standards in the hatchery.
• Receive and store eggs according to handling and temperature guidelines.
• Transfer eggs from storage to setters and then to hatchers.
• Candle eggs to assess fertility and quality.
• Sanitize hatchery equipment and work areas to maintain biosecurity.
• Monitor temperatures and humidity for optimal hatch rates.
• Prepare birds for sexing and farm delivery.
• Ensure SOPs are followed and report irregularities to management.

Skills

Biosecurity awareness

Egg handling

Sanitation

Quality control

Teamwork

Job description

Job Description Summary

The Pedigree Hatchery Associate will be responsible for the transfer of eggs from setters to hatchers, preparing birds for sexing, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation throughout the hatchery, and performing various general duties to support efficient hatchery operations. This role is essential to maintaining the health, safety, and quality standards of our pedigree breeding program.

Job Description

Applicants are not allowed to own any kind of birds due to the risk of possible disease transmission.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, Day Shift (6:00 AM - 4:00 PM)

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain strict biosecurity and animal welfare standards while working in hatchery
• Receive and store eggs according to established handling and temperature guidelines.
• Transfer eggs from storage to setters and from setters to hatchers.
• Candle eggs to assess fertility and quality.
• Sanitize egg room equipment, storage areas, and trays to maintain biosecurity.
• Monitor egg conditions, including temperature and humidity, to ensure optimal hatch rates.
• Prepare birds for sexing, ensuring proper handling and care while preparing for farm delivery.
• Sanitize hatchery machines, floors, walls, ceilings, tables and work areas.
• Assemble boxes, stack, pack, and perform other general duties as assigned.
• Maintain proper handling, cleaning, and safety practices for birds and eggs.
• Monitor production processes, hatch performance, day-old chick quality, egg quality, and equipment operation.
• Ensure compliance with company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Report any irregularities or concerns to management promptly.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform moderate physical work, including repetitive tasks and standing for extended periods.
• Capability to work in a fast-paced environment under pressure.
• Self-motivated and able to perform tasks with limited supervision.
• Reliable attendance and commitment to high-quality work.

Physical Requirements

• Work with cleaning chemicals, including detergents and disinfectants.
• Stand for extended periods (up to 6 hours).
• Grip, grasp, or twist using hands and wrists.
• Lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Bend and stoop repetitively during shift.

Work Environment

• Routine handling and interaction with live poultry.
• Exposure to hatchery-related odors.
• Work in varying climates, both hot and cold.
• Operation in a loud/noisy environment.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. We play a leading role in feeding the world's future generations. We bring smart, passionate people together and watch amazing things happen! Working at Aviagen presents career opportunities that impact an industry. We encourage people to bring their experience and knowledge and help work on complex issues that will shape the future of the poultry industry. In an environment that promotes innovation and progressive approaches to problem solving, Aviagen is working today to be ready for what tomorrow may bring. Are you ready for the adventure?