The Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence (LFCE) is a unique research infrastructure complex of both analytical and field laboratories that encompasses all aspects of raising livestock on the Canadian Prairies. The LFCE provides researchers, faculty, students, producers and the agriculture industry with an innovative, broad-based platform for research, teaching and extension activities. Research at the LFCE focuses on the following key areas: cow-calf production; intensive livestock production; forage, pasture and grazing management; and, bison, cervid, and equine management, nutrition, and reproduction.

The LFCE is a leader in developing research, teaching and technology transfer programs that provide the livestock and forage industries of Saskatchewan and beyond with new tools and techniques for healthy, sustainable and competitive growth. The LFCE includes livestock facilities (Beef Cattle Research & Teaching Unit, Forage & Cow-Calf Research & Teaching Unit, and Goodale Research Farm), and a large base of forage production and grazing land all near Saskatoon, SK.

Primary Purpose: The efficient and effective operation of the University of Saskatchewan’s Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence (LFCE). This role supports the LFCE’s mission by overseeing day-to-day activities across its diverse research and teaching facilities, enabling innovative research, education, and technology transfer in livestock and forage production. The position plays a key role in facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting the LFCE’s contributions to sustainable and competitive growth in the livestock and forage industries of Saskatchewan and beyond.

Nature of Work: Reporting to the Head of Operations, this position provides front-line leadership, direction, and supervision to the Animal Technicians and student assistants. This position ensures that all aspects of the unit's daily operations are carried out effectively and efficiently. The Animal Technician Supervisor may also provide front-line leadership and oversight of all aspects of annual crop and forage production, manure management, and equipment and facility maintenance. Decisions regarding extensive projects, significant issues and involving large expenditures are made in consultation with the Head of Operations. Decisions around prioritization, problem solving, and scheduling of day-to-day tasks are made independently.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities:

Leadership & Supervision

Provide front-line leadership and supervision to Animal Technicians and students Collaborate with the Head of Operations and other facilitators to develop and implement work plans Train, onboard, coach, and support staff to meet performance expectations Prioritize and delegate tasks to ensure efficient daily operations Manage assigned projects to successful completion

Animal Care & Research Support

Oversee animal care to ensure compliance with Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) guidelines Participate in feeding, handling, and care of various livestock species including cattle, bison, deer, and horses under research and teaching conditions Provide oversight and hands-on support during calving, ensuring proper care for cows and newborn calves Ensure adherence to research protocols and assist in the collection of data and samples Maintain accurate and detailed records of production, maintenance, and research activities

Crop & Forage Production

Oversee and participate in all aspects of annual crop and forage production Operate and maintain a wide range of heavy agricultural equipment Ensure facilities and equipment are proactively maintained and in good working condition Monitor feed and bedding supplies in consultation with the operations team to ensure adequate inventory

Operational Oversight & Compliance

Identify and prioritize emerging issues, applying problem-solving strategies in collaboration with the operations team Purchase equipment, supplies, and services as needed for effective unit operations Ensure all practices comply with Occupational Health & Safety regulations Promote adherence to operating and safety protocols, recommending improvements where appropriate Provide input to the Head of Operations to support cost-effective and efficient unit management

Collaboration & Outreach

Collaborate with researchers, students, and technicians to ensure the unit meets academic and research needs Work with other units, contractors, and internal/external partners to support integrated operations Support progressive, best-practice operations to position the unit as a leading resource for applied research and technology development Facilitate and participate in undergraduate and graduate teaching and extension events as required

Data & Documentation

Input and manage data in relevant databases Ensure meticulous documentation of all operational, production, and research-related activities

Perform other duties as assigned

Education: Relevant post-secondary education is required. A combination of education and experience may be considered.

 Licenses: A valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record are required. A Class 5G license is considered an asset, and candidates must be willing to obtain one if not already held. A Class 1A license is also considered an asset.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a supervisory role, with demonstrated leadership and team management skills. At least 10 years of hands-on experience working with beef cattle. Experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of various types of agricultural and construction equipment is required. Experience in collecting and recording research and production data is required.

Skills:

Extensive knowledge of pasture-based livestock production, including intensive rotational grazing systems Proven experience in collecting and recording research and production data Practical experience in calving, including managing calving-related challenges and preparing activity reports Experience in supervisory functions such as recruitment, reference checks, supervision, and staff training Effective computer skills and experience working in information database systems Strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills with the ability to work collaboratively and build positive relationships. Proven ability to effectively train and mentor students in a hands-on learning environment Self-motivated, open-minded, and proactive, with a progressive attitude to lead in a dynamic and evolving setting High attention to detail and strong organizational skills, including accurate record keeping Deep understanding of humane animal care, health, and handling principles, with demonstrated competency in livestock husbandry Proficient in operating, maintaining, and repairing a wide range of agricultural and construction equipment Reasonable welding and carpentry skills Experience in the care and handling of bison Willingness to pursue additional training and continuously develop new skills Physical capability to perform demanding manual labor