On-Call Farmhand General Summary

Position: On-Call Farmhand GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
Location: Estherville

This is a part-time, on-call position located on the Emmetsburg Campus College Farm. The primary purpose of this role is to provide coverage for routine livestock chores, primarily feeding and daily care of animals, on an as-needed basis (typically one weekend per month and with potential for occasional weekday assignments). The position supports operations within a farrow-to-finish swine unit, cow/calf herd, and custom feedlot.

Consistency in animal care, attention to detail, and adherence to farm protocols - including biosecurity practices - are essential. A strong commitment to animal husbandry and responsible livestock management is required. Position may require early morning, evening, weekend, and on-call hours.

Position:
On-Call Farmhand

Classification:
Unclassified

Department:
College Farm

Report To:
Farm Manager

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES (% OF THE TIME):

Constant (67-100%)

* Complete routine feeding and care of livestock across swine, beef cow/calf, and feedlot operations, ensuring all animals have adequate feed and water and are monitored for health and well-being.

* Conduct daily checks or swine facilities (including farrowing, nursery, and finishing spaces), identifying health concerns, environmental issues, or maintenance needs.

* Operate farm equipment, including tractors, feed wagon, and skid loader, mix and deliver rations, and complete feeding tasks.

* Accurately follow feeding protocols and ration guidelines for multiple livestock species.

* Identify sick, injured, or distressed animals and promptly report concerns to the Farm Manager.

* Maintain accurate records using farm software/apps as assigned (feeding logs, health observations, etc.).

Frequent (34-66%)

* Ensure all work is completed in accordance with farm safety standards, animal welfare expectations, and sanitation protocols.

* Follow established biosecurity protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning/disinfection procedures, and movement between animal units.

* Assist with basic facility upkeep such as cleaning pens, waterers, and feeding equipment.

Occasional (10-33%)

* Report equipment or facility maintenance needs to the Farm Manager in a timely manner.

* Potentially assist with occasional livestock handling tasks (sorting, moving animals, loading/unloading) as needed.

* Support other farm-related duties as assigned based on operational needs.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

* Demonstrated commitment to representing the College in a positive and professional manner with students, staff, and the public.

* Knowledge of or willingness to learn livestock husbandry practices related to swine and beef production systems.

* Understanding of the importance of biosecurity practices, including disease prevention, sanitation, and controlled movement between livestock areas.

* Ability to follow detailed instructions related to feeding protocols, animal care, and farm operations.

* Ability to identify basic signs of animal illness, injury, or distress and respond appropriately.

* Ability to safely operate or learn to operate agricultural equipment such as tractors, skid loaders, and feed wagons.

* Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining reliability and accountability in an on-call role.

* Ability to communicate effectively with the Fam Manager regarding animal health, facility issues, and completed tasks.

* Basic familiarity with or willingness to learn digital tools or applications used for farm record-keeping.

* Ability to prioritize safety, cleanliness, and animal welfare in all tasks.

SPECIAL DEMANDS:

Position involves standing and walking for extended periods of time, including walking through livestock pens and swine barns, as well as periods of sitting while operating farm equipment. Subject to outdoor weather conditions, temperature extremes, dust, noise, odors, livestock environments, and exposure to manure, bedding materials, and agricultural chemicals. Work may be performed in confined livestock spaces and uneven terrain. Medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force frequently (34-66%).

Heavier work that requires extra exertion occasionally (10-33%). Must be able to perform routine stooping, bending, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, balancing, climbing, and lifting up to 25 pounds constantly (67-100%). Must have valid driver's license, good driving record, and provide proof of insurance.

Employment with Iowa Lakes Community College is dependent upon successful passage of a criminal background check. Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship. Iowa Lakes Community Collee participates in the federal E-Verify program. We will verify your employment eligibility in the United States as required by law.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential functions, job duties/responsibilities, and performance expectations of the job, which should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of…