Assistant Manager, MALC Ruminant Operations

Job Title:

Assistant Manager, MALC Ruminant Operations

Department:

FAES | Agricultural Operations Administration

Job Description

As part of CFAES, the MALC Ruminant Operations Manager manages operations supporting teaching, research, and Extension programs. This is a 12-month term position with responsibilities allocated 60% to Ruminant operations and 40% to Meat Laboratory operations through December 2026. Beginning in January 2027, the position will transition to a 100% focus on MALC Ruminant Operations.

MALC Ruminant Operations (50% through Dec 2026, then 90% January term end date)

• Assist with all aspects of beef and small ruminant herd/flock management at the MALC and the satellite beef herd at Don Scott, including nutrition, reproduction, health, welfare, and production programs.
• Support breeding programs, calving and lambing schedules, and genetic improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records related to animal health, production, breeding, inventory, and research activities.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including records for daily care as required by IACUC, AAALAC, and USDA.
• Follow animal care standards, biosecurity protocols, and environmental regulations.
• Assist with inventories of feed, medications, equipment, and supplies.
• Track expenditures and identify opportunities for operational efficiencies.
• Assist with onboarding, Recruiting, training, and provide support to student employees and support staff.
• Coordinate daily operations supporting teaching, Extension, and research programs.
• Provide backup support for other operations managers during absences and periods of increased workload.

Meat Laboratory Operations (40% through December 2026)

• Assist with day-to-day operations of the Meat Laboratory in support of teaching, research, and Extension activities as directed by the Meat Lab Manager.
• Assists with scheduling facility use, livestock processing activities, and laboratory support services.
• Assists with monitoring and maintaining laboratory equipment, operational supplies, and inventories.
• Under the direction of the Meat Lab Manager, ensures compliance with food safety, sanitation, workplace safety, and university standards including USDA inspections.
• Support faculty-led research projects and instructional activities.
• Assist in coordinating livestock movement and processing schedules.
• Assist with budget management, purchasing, and operational planning.
• Support special events, outreach programs, demonstrations, and Extension programming.

Compliance and Biosecurity

• Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding animal welfare, food safety, and environmental standards.
• Work closely with the Biosecurity Manager to develop and enforce biosecurity protocols.
• Train staff and students on biosecurity, food safety, and operational best practices.
• Promote a culture of safety, compliance, and accountability.

Education, Research, and Innovation

• Support academic programs through experiential learning opportunities and hands-on instruction.
• Coordinate and support research projects, including data collection, protocol compliance, and reporting.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to advance research, teaching, and outreach goals.
• Contribute to innovation and continuous improvement in beef production, meat processing, and facility management practices.