Swine Genetics Assistant Technician

christensenfarms; Pierre (SD); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) plan

Paid holidays & PTO

Hybrid work options

Job summary

Christensen Farms is seeking an Assistant Genetic Technician to support the Genetic Technician in evaluating and selecting animals within our genetic program. This entry-level role includes hands-on live-animal assessments, maintaining genetic records, and coordinating pig flows across locations under supervision.

You'll participate in data collection, testing, and routine tasks across production cycles while ensuring animal welfare and biosecurity standards, with training and career growth

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is preferred, ideally in agriculture or animal science.
• At least 1 year of swine production experience; genetic information or live-animal selection preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to biosecurity, safety and proper animal welfare practices.
• Bilingual English/Spanish required (spoken and written).

Responsibilities

• Conduct live-animal genetic testing including leg scoring, muscle scoring, puberty data collection, weighing, and ultrasound scanning for backfat and loin depth.
• Select gilts and boars based on phenotypic quality, underline evaluation, and structural soundness.
• Manage animal flows to and from grow-out units, ensuring proper separation and tracking of genetic lines.
• Record, track, and maintain accurate genetic and performance data, including pen card management and monthly selection/testing reports.
• Coordinate logistics of pig movement, marketing schedules, and hauling needs while ensuring strict biosecurity compliance.
• Support general production tasks including sorting, shipping, marking pigs for sale, treating and vaccinating animals, ventilation adjustments, and power washing.
• Identify and treat sick or injured animals, perform bleeding and diagnostics, and ensure timely euthanasia when required.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and production teams regarding scheduling, health issues, performance, and record requirements.
• Vaccine administration and management.
• Managing Heat Induction Program.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Communication skills

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in agriculture or animal science

Job description

Christensen Farms is seeking an Assistant Genetic Technician to support the Genetic Technician in evaluating and selecting animals within our genetic program. This entry-level role includes hands-on live-animal assessments, maintaining genetic records, and coordinating pig flows across locations under supervision.

You'll participate in data collection, testing, and routine tasks across production cycles while ensuring animal welfare and biosecurity standards, with training and career growth