What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Science Herd Foreperson (Foreman) position at Bristol County Agricultural High School?
BRISTOL COUNTY AGRICULTURAL HIGH SCHOOL
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Animal Science Herd Foreperson (Foreman)
Reports To: Farm Manager and in their absences the Facilities Director
Position Overview: The Animal Science Herd Foreperson (Foreman) position schedule is as outlined in the BCAHS Support Staff collectively Bargained Agreement. Supervision of this position will be under the direction of the Farm Manager and in their absences the Facilities Director. Schedule will be as follows: Tuesday-Thursday 5:30 am-2:30 pm, Friday -Saturday 5:30 am-4:30 pm.
Duties:
Ability to run and operate a robotic milking system, ensuring daily milking procedures are completed.
Responsible for daily care and management of all animals on Campus .
Oversees the milking routine; review procedures with Co-op field representatives to ensure industry standards are followed.
Ensure that animals are housed and treated humanely.
Maintain all health and breeding records including all digital records in conjunction with the Farm Manager. Treat sick animals and secure veterinary assistance when needed.
Work with governmental and co-op inspectors to maintain certifications; report findings to the Facilities Director, Farm Manager and Animal Science Department Chair.
Maintain pastures to ensure optimal animal nutrition: seeding, rotary mowing, rotational grazing, fencing, etc.
Maintain all buildings and grounds in conjunction with the other department and facilities personnel.
Maintain and repair equipment and facilities when needed; communicate with Animal Science Department Chair, Farm Manager and Facilities Director to ensure timely repairs and regular maintenance, follow any and all preventative maintenance schedules related to equipment and farm related infrastructure.
Assist the Farm Manager and Animal Science Department Chair with ensuring that the facility adheres to all necessary laws and regulations pertaining to animal care.
Assist the Farm Manager and Animal Science Department Chair with acquiring animals and breeding stock.
In conjunction with the Farm Manager, assist to create schedules, finding and training substitute herd personnel.
Assist teaching staff with handling of animals as needed.
Assist teaching staff with setting up/breaking down equipment needed for vocational classes.
Provide input to the Animal Science Department Chair and Farm Manager with preparing an annual budget.
Communicate with the Farm manager and Animal Science Department, Co-Op field representatives, milk truck drivers, etc. to ensure timely deliveries.
Supervises and works with student workers.
In conjunction with the Department Chair and Farm Manager, assist with the student worker hiring process and creating their schedules.
Evaluate student workers on an annual basis.
Keep student payroll records and communicate payroll with the business office as needed.
Contribute to the development of installation and maintenance/service policies and procedures. Develop necessary expertise by attending training and educational workshops, as required.
Stay up to date on the latest topics influencing the dairy industry, including automation, milking innovation, data management, and sustainability.
Transport animals when needed, Assist with short term and long term management of all herds.
Assist the Farm Manager and Animal Science Department Chair with ordering feed, equipment and supplies.
Work with the Farm Manager, Animal Science Department Chair, Nutritionist, etc to ensure optimal animal health. Prepare registration forms, arrange for contractual services in conjunction with the Farm Manager and Animal Science Department Chair, create Purchase Orders, track inventory and create supply lists.
Nurture and grow productive relationships with farmers, dairy equipment distributors, manufacturers, and key internal and external stakeholders.
Schedule preventative maintenance through Operations Hero, relative to robotic milking
GENERAL STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS:
Possess experience and proven skill in the care of farm animals and pet shop animals.
Knowledge and proven ability to work on a dairy farm.
Ability to organize and supervise student-aged workers and crews.
Ability to operate modern farm equipment and snow equipment.
Ability to perform basic building and equipment maintenance and repair.
Valid driver’s license.
Holds a 1C and 2A Hoisting License or would need to obtain within the first year.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect easily with school staff and external business partners.
Proven ability to work independently without direct supervision.
Proficiency in the use of computer technology including: Microsoft, Google and learn the VMS systems (Voluntary Milking System).
Ability to write purchase orders, maintenance requests and maintain established digital records.
Residency requirement:
Position requires on campus residency
Respond to the needs of the farm with respect to animal health and safety, general security of the campus, assist with crop production and snow removal during normal off hours.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to perform manual labor in various weather conditions.
Capability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
Capacity to stand, walk, and operate machinery for extended periods.
COMPENSATION: As per identified in the BCAHS Support Staff Collectively Bargained Agreement with the Board of Trustees of BCAHS.
Information can be entered into SchoolSpring and Indeed
For question please contact:
Ryan Miranda, Facilities Manager
rmiranda@bcahs.com
Bristol County Agricultural High School is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer
February 2025