Agricultural Assistant II - ISU Dairy bei Iowa State University

Position Title:

Agricultural Assistant II - ISU Dairy

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent and 3 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Milking experience.
Experience caring for and supporting dairy cattle.
General knowledge of farm labor, equipment and machinery.

Job Description:

The Iowa State University Dairy is seeking a motivated and responsible Agricultural Assistant II to join our team in the daily care and management of the dairy herd. This position supports the farm’s operations, herd health, and research activities while contributing to a collaborative team dedicated to exceptional animal care, safety, and research excellence.

What You’ll Do

• Perform daily milking procedures, maintain milking systems and sanitation, and monitor cow health, productivity, and milk quality.

• Observe cows for signs of illness, injury, or abnormal behavior during milking and assist with basic animal care and treatments.

• Monitor herd health, reproduction, and biosecurity protocols to ensure animal well-being and regulatory compliance.

• Operate and maintain farm equipment and facilities, assisting with preventative maintenance and seasonal farm tasks.

• Perform feeding, cleaning of bedding packs and other tasks.

• Train and mentor student employees in safe and effective animal handling practices.

• Maintain accurate herd, health, and maintenance records.

• Support research, teaching, and other farm operations.

• Support seasonal operations such as snow removal, mowing, silage harvest, and grounds upkeep.

Why You’ll Love This Job

If you’re passionate about dairy farming, this role offers the chance to make a real impact. You’ll join a dedicated team supporting daily herd care, milking, and health management while contributing to agricultural research and student learning. Each day brings something new—whether assisting with calving, maintaining equipment, troubleshooting systems, or mentoring student workers. You’ll help ensure excellent animal welfare, efficient farm operations, and a safe, clean environment. If you value variety, teamwork, and meaningful work—and bring a strong work ethic and willingness to learn—you’ll find this position both rewarding and impactful.

Work Schedule

Work hours generally align with milking times and may include early mornings (around 5:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.) or later hours (around 5:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.), along with a rotating weekend schedule.

Additional information

Two openings are available. The positions will remain open until filled, with full consideration given to applications received before October 29th, 2025.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Level Guidelines
• Career-level position demonstrating proficiency and knowledge of related competencies
• Works under direct to general supervision and may receive guidance on more complex assignments
• Follows established procedures for work assignments, and completes assignments which are semi-routine and may be atypical in nature
• Applies thorough knowledge to respond to inquiries and requests
• Able to resolve most problems and issues and respond to requests without escalation
• Provides guidance to students
• May provide supervision to one to two other staff or lead a small work team

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS805

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

The positions will remain open until filled, with full consideration given to applications received before October 29th, 2025.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date:

October 20, 2025

Posting Close Date:

Job Requisition Number:

R17991

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