Research Technician

**About Olds College of Agriculture and Technology**

Founded in 1913, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology has been offering high quality hands-on education for over a century. Through our core programming including continuing education, online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We are passionate about the Agriculture industry. Through our applied research and integrated learning, we are proud to be Canada’s Smart Agriculture College, specializing in agriculture, agrifood, horticulture, land and environmental stewardship. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.

**The Opportunity**:

- This position is covered by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) Collective Agreement Job Classification: Technician I_

The Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production (TACLP) is focused on meeting the needs of the Canadian livestock industry by providing access to new technologies that increase production efficiencies, enhance environmental sustainability and improve animal health and welfare. Research and innovation services focused on feed efficiency testing, behavioral assessment, early disease detection, genomics and validation of emerging technologies help to accelerate the adoption of new technology and improved management practices for the livestock sector.

The TACLP has an opportunity available for a Research Technician. The position will work closely with the TACLP research team in order to assist with the development and execution of several research projects related to beef and sheep production, as well as forage and grazing.

**Key Job Functions**:
Livestock Management & Research Support
- Livestock husbandry, including handling, feeding and processing beef cattle and sheep
- Coordinating sample collections for research projects

Data Management & Quality Control
- Data collection, database entry and interpretation of results
- Implementing new measures to increase the accuracy and validity of existing data collection methods

General Support & Collaboration
- Assist in other duties as requested

Workplace Culture & Values
- Actively promote and reinforce practices that prioritize the well-being and security of all individuals at Olds College and show a proactive attitude towards safety measures, continuously striving to enhance safety protocols and instill a culture of shared responsibility and accountability when it comes to maintaining a safe and secure work setting
- Acts ethically, openly, honestly, and respectfully to build and maintain an environment of trust, safety, and well-being.
- Demonstrate a strong dedication to promoting inclusivity and diversity by actively seeking out and valuing diverse perspectives, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all backgrounds, and continuously striving to create a culture of respect and understanding.

**Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required**:

- Minimum of two years of post-secondary education_ _in animal science, animal behaviour, agricultural economics, rangeland science or another field related to livestock production; degree preferred or equivalent two years in practical experience
- Must be physical fitness for required livestock research activities
- Able to work with mínimal supervision
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, communication, and multitasking skills
- Experience with experimental data collection, livestock handling, and record-keeping is considered an asset

**Conditions of Employment**:

- ** Will be required to work outdoors to some extent in all seasons**, e.g., rain, snow, heat, cold, etc.
- Occasional overtime work in evenings and weekends may be required at times
- Current Criminal Reference check that is free of any offenses
- Must respect and actively promote health and safety policies

**Olds College offers a competitive benefit plan**:
- Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)- Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits- Health/Personal Spending Account- Generous Vacation Leave- Paid Holiday Closure
- ‘Olds College in the Community’ volunteer leave
- Professional development and opportunities for growth, including employee and family tuition waivers

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the key job functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility. It is not an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Other duties may be assigned.