Animal Science Researcher 2 - Morris, MN

About the Job

The University of Minnesota's West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC) is located in Morris, MN. The WCROC is part of the University of MN College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences providing a tradition of excellence in applied agricultural research and education for farmers and rural communities in crop production, animal sciences, horticulture, water quality, organic and conventional dairy, swine production, and renewable energy.

Position Overview / Responsibilities

• (60%) Research Participation and Coordination Support
• Assist in design, coordination and setup of field monitoring and experiments.
• Perform regular maintenance on in-field sampling.
• Independently perform data analysis, record protocols, data, and interpret experimental results.
• Assist in design of research projects, work independently to collect and process dairy calf and cow samples using established protocols.
• (30%) Dairy Operations Support
• Work independently to oversee the use of equipment, organize and clean dairy calf and cow space, inventory and order supplies.
• Train personnel on protocols and safety and grazing and feeding experiments with dairy cattle.
• Have a working knowledge of precision dairy technologies and maintenance of dairy cattle sensor systems.
• Perform regular maintenance of precision technologies with the dairy herd.
• (10%) Data Collection
• Compile data of calf and cattle data from experiments.

Qualifications

• BS/BA in Animal Science or related field plus at least two years of related experience, or a combination of education and relevant work experience to equal at least six years.
• Experience in precision technology related to dairy.
• Knowledge of sensor systems.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $27.25 - $29.00; depending on education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100 percent Appointment
Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota Morris (UMN Morris) makes its home on a 121-year-old campus on the western edge of the state and is one of the top public liberal arts colleges in the nation. The small, close-knit campus emphasizes faculty/student collaboration in research, study abroad, and community engaged learning. Deeply rooted in the tall grass prairies of Minnesota, the campus also has advanced sustainable, environmentally friendly initiatives that have grown to levels of national leadership and touch nearly all aspects of campus life.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.