Title: Animal Science Technician
State Role Title: Agricultural Specialist II
Hiring Range: up to $55,000.00
Pay Band: 2
Agency: Virginia State University
Location: VSU/Coop Ext & Agri Res Sta
Agency Website: www.VSU.edu
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
This position will serve as an Animal Systems Technician and, along with the other members of the Animal Systems Support Unit, will assist in conducting research and coordinate the on- farm operation of the Animal Systems Program. This includes, but not limited to, conduct research, outreach and care of research animals. These activities are carried out as instructed by and in coordination with the Animal Systems Manager.
The College of Agriculture provides programs and services to improve the educational and socio-economic well-being of students, families, and communities—focusing on excellence through integrated instruction, research and extension programs.
Minimum Qualifications
Prior livestock and/or farming experience.
Demonstrated knowledge of principles of sustainable agriculture and food production.
Demonstrated comprehension of agriculture research and extension programming, with emphasis on Animal Systems.
Ability to work with a team or past experiences in giving work direction and assigning tasks to others.
Experience and/or knowledge with farm equipment such as tractors, skid steers, planters, mowers as well as hand power equipment such as string trimmers, tillers, grinders, etc.
Ability to work on multiple large/small-scale task and projects.
Ability to use computers and software packages (MS OFFICE, SharePoint, etc.) to track inventories and supplies.
Knowledge and comprehensive understanding of agriculture safety guidelines, university regulations, and state and federal policies.
Demonstrate good communication, interpersonal and organizational skills and be adept at tactfully managing shifts in priorities and projects.
Punctual skills, being task orientated, and attentive to detail.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and perform work under very limited supervision.
Working conditions:
The standard work hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday; must be able to have flexibility in working hours, for occasional weekend/holiday work, and events/workshops outside of normal work hours; overnight travel/while attending conferences, workshops, trainings and visits to off-farm sites. Due to nature of position occasional nights, weekends, and emergency work situations.
Travel required - Meetings/Conferences and farm visits/tours.
Evening/night/weekend work- Required occasionally for scheduled trainings.
Working indoors/outdoors in agricultural production fields.
Climate controlled environment, temperature could vary depending on work-site.
Physical requirements:
The physical requirements of the job will require standing and sitting for periods of time, lifting minimum and heavy objects, transporting handheld, backpack, and other types of equipment, and while performing some repetitive tasks, and so forth.
Additional Considerations
Have or be able to obtain a CDL - Preferred
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Virginia State University is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons and applicants, without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, genetic information, race, religion, sexual orientation, sex (including pregnancy) or veteran status. VSU encourages and invites minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
HOW TO APPLY: Virginia State University only accepts applications for this position through the on-line state Recruitment Management System (PageUp). Faxed, e-mailed, and mailed applications and/or attachments will not be accepted. The application must be detailed and fully completed. All employment and periods of unemployment (if applicable) must be listed within the application; either on an attached resume, or manually listed in the “Relevant Work History” section. Each application is reviewed for documentation that shows the applicant meets the minimum and preferred qualifications stated in the job announcement. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application, therefore, it is essential to fully complete each section of the application and provide descriptive information. Submitting an incomplete state application, or a state application lacking in detail, may result in your non-selection. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Interested persons must attach a cover letter and a current resume/c.v to the online application. Official transcripts will be required at the time of employment.
The selected candidate will be subject to an extensive and complete background check, which may include fingerprinting. The candidate may be required to complete a Statement of Economic Interest as a condition of employment, if applicable.
Commonwealth’s Alternative Hiring Process: In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: https://www.vadars.org/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx , or call DARS at 800-552-5019.
Contact Information
Name: Dominique M. Fisher
Phone: 804-524-5075
Email: Dfisher@vsu.edu
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.