Layer Barn Operator

**Summary**

At Atlantic Poultry Incorporated (API) we are committed to feeding our communities through stewardship of the land and animals in our care to inspire the next generation of Atlantic Canadian Farmers. API is a proud supporter of the poultry industry, providing feed, chicks, and fresh eggs year around to our customers throughout Atlantic Canada.

The Layer Barn Operator will work as part of the team ensuring the company’s animal husbandry practices are followed. Responsibilities of a Layer Barn Operator includes feeding and watering hens and roosters; monitoring and regulating ventilation and temperature; ensuring water quality and supply; monitoring feed levels and handling live or deceased birds, collecting, and weighing birds. They will maintain accurate daily records of feed and water consumption, mortality rates and other relevant information as well as ensuring clean and well-maintained buildings, equipment, and grounds. The Layer Barn Operator will lead the barn set up and preparation for new flocks. The individual in this position will also help with transfer of birds from grow to lay barns.

**Schedule**

The work schedule for this position is a rotation that includes weekends, averaging 40 hours per week. The individual must be able to work flexible hours, including some holidays, and be available to answer on-call alarms.

**Position Accountabilities**
- Monitor feed levels
- Feed birds according to the program used
- Ensuring water quality and supply are adequate
- Monitor and regulate ventilation and temperature
- Flush drinking lines
- Collecting eggs
- Handling live or deceased birds
- Following and enforcing a weekly weigh program
- Daily barn maintenance i.e. cleaning floors, garbage removal
- Flock management - with proper training culling as needed
- Maintain accurate daily records
- Data inputting using electronic devices (tablet, smartphone)
- Provide an environment free of animal cruelty, abuse and/or neglect for our poultry
- Protect the organization’s value by keeping all protected and proprietary information confidential
- Practice bio security protocol
- Follow all safety processes and procedures
- All other duties as assigned

**Position Requirements**
- Grade 12 or equivalent preferred
- Ability to lift up to 14kgs (30lbs)
- Willingness to work with live poultry
- Ability to work independently with mínimal supervision
- Experience in the agricultural industry and/or food processing preferable
- Valid Driver's License preferred
- High attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Problem solving skills

**Working Conditions**

The position operates indoors in a farm/barn environment. Work environment may be warm and humid, cold in the winter months, dusty at times with strong odours, and noisy. Standing for long periods of time and repetitive tasks are common. Proper safety footwear and respirators are required and supplied with additional PPE available upon request.

**Compensation and Benefits**

API also offers benefits covering a wide range of services for mental and physical health. Our benefits include, but aren’t limited to:

- Health and Dental
- Extended Health Care
- Participation in the API Pension Plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- Bonus Program Participation