Lead Hand Research Technician

Lead Hand Research Technician – New Liskeard Beef Research Station Location: New Liskeard, ON, CA, P0J 1P0 Primary Category: Staff and Management Division: Research Facilities Requisition ID: 1994 Department: OMAFRA Research Facilities This position is covered by the Collective Agreement with the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation District 35 – Technician/Administrative/Research/Agricultural. If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. General Purpose The Lead Hand Research Technician provides advanced technical leadership and hands‑on support for livestock‑based research programs with a focus on beef and dairy cattle. Reporting to the Ontario Beef Research Centre Technical Foreperson, the Technician provides technical expertise in the planning, coordination, implementation, delivery and quality control of beef livestock research at the New Liskeard Agricultural Research Station. The role coordinates and implements complex research protocols, ensures the highest standards of animal care and welfare, manages research data collection systems, and provides technical guidance to staff, students and researchers. The position operates with a high degree of independence and plays a critical role in the success, integrity, and compliance of animal research programs. Duties and Responsibilities Maintain and apply expertise in herd production, reproduction, nutrition, and animal welfare in compliance with CCAC regulations and food production standards. Oversee day‑to‑day livestock health, including nutrition programs, housing conditions, vaccination programs and veterinary care. Actively participate in daily farm operations including feeding, cleaning, bedding, calving, breeding, animal handling and data entry. Ensure high‑quality research services including feed production, biological sample collection, ultrasound measurements, pregnancy checks and accurate record keeping. Organize, manage and manipulate research data using spreadsheets, databases and herd management software to support analysis and reporting. Implement and manage breeding, genetic mating and herd health programs using computerized monitoring systems. Provide technical and functional guidance to agricultural assistants, research technicians, students and seasonal staff. Requirements Undergraduate degree in a related field; master’s degree in animal biology or animal science preferred. Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in livestock research, animal production or a comparable setting. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Strong knowledge of cattle behaviour, welfare and low‑stress handling techniques. Experience with biological sample collection, aseptic techniques, injections and minor surgical procedures. Advanced computer skills including spreadsheets, databases, herd management software and research‑specific programmes. Experience operating farm machinery and livestock handling equipment. Strong organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills. Ability to work independently and make day‑to‑day operational decisions. A valid Class G driver’s licence (minimum) with higher licence endorsements or the ability to obtain is required. The incumbent is expected to work in all areas of responsibility at the Beef facility as assigned. Normal work week is 40 hours; individual shifts are 8 hours and include working weekends and holidays as scheduled. The incumbent is also expected to be flexible to cover workloads during peak periods, weekends, vacation schedules or emergency staff shortages. All positions require physical strength and stamina. Employee Type: Regular Position Number: 10478007 Classification: OSSTF/TARA, District 35 Salary: Band 7 OSSTF/TARA Wage Grid: Tentative evaluation; subject to committee review. At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our institution. Posting Date: 01/06/2026 Close Date: 01/20/2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr