Research Specialist II; Goat Specialist

Overview

The Research Specialist II (Goat Specialist) is responsible for the daily care, health monitoring, and productivity assessment of approximately 450 goats at the International Goat Research Center. The herd consists of 80% meat goats (Spanish and Boer breeds) and 20% dairy goats (Alpine breed). This position plays a critical role in maintaining herd health, supporting research initiatives, and ensuring optimal animal welfare and productivity.

• Conduct daily herd inspections, health monitoring, treatment administration, and maintain animal health records.
• Perform daily feeding operations, feed monitoring, pasture rotation assistance, and water management.
• Provide breeding assistance, estrus monitoring, kidding support, and breeding documentation.
• Support Alpine dairy herd operations through milking assistance and sanitation responsibilities.
• Maintain barns, fencing, shelters, feeding equipment, and general livestock facility upkeep.
• Document herd productivity, health treatments, assessments, and reporting to support operational management and research initiatives.
• Participate in college-wide events and perform other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s Degree and six years of related experience.

Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Seven years of experience in herd management, including health monitoring, breeding, and recordkeeping.
• Knowledge of goat breeds, behavior, and basic veterinary practices.
• Ability to identify signs of illness, aging, and reproductive inefficiency.
• Strong organizational and observational skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Experience with both meat and dairy goat operations.
• Familiarity with livestock management software or recordkeeping systems.
• Basic understanding of animal science or agricultural research.

• Ability to lift moderately heavy objects.
• Ability to exert heavy force.
• Work beyond normal business hours and/or work on weekends. Holiday work may be required depending on herd needs.
• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions.

The Texas A&M University System is an Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.