Livestock- Specialized Associate

Job Overview

A position within the Agriculture, Arts and Education Department, the Specialized Livestock Associate:

• Oversees Livestock (Open & Youth Breeding and Junior Market & Breeding) competitions, educational presentations, community engagement, displays, vendors, and activities related to the San Diego County Fair's Livestock Show.
• Develops and stewards' community, club, professional organization, and vendor relationships to promote the exhibit's benefits and opportunities.
• Pursues the mission of the Agriculture, Arts and Education Department - To connect our audience to agriculture and arts by creating inspiring and innovative exhibits, enriching educational experiences and competitions that encourage community connection.

Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited, to the following:

• Under the direction of the department director and program supervisor, collaborates with Ag & Ed team members, marketing, and other internal stakeholders to establish and execute the large and small animal exhibit's objectives.
• Collaborates with Department Staff in the planning and implementation of the San Diego County Fair Consumer Protection Plan for animal programs and educational exhibits.
• Interacts with exhibitors, fairgoers and other stakeholders to ensure an enjoyable experience.
• Provides prompt and knowledgeable responses to exhibitor and fairgoer questions, requests, and issues.
• Creates graphic and written plans to accomplish objectives and promote a successful show.
• Performs industry and community outreach to maintain and develop new relationships.
• Coordinates ethical and fair judging practices including selection, hiring, and contracting of judges, veterinarians, weigh masters, and other support staff.
• Plans and implements programs, presentations, demonstrations, and activities.
• Conducts regular meetings to solicit feedback and inform exhibitors of plans, changes, updates, and enhancements to the procedures and show.
• Assists in editing competition entry materials in compliance with State Fair Rules.
• Completes appropriate breed and species association affiliations and sanctions.
• Directs and assists exhibitors in entry processes and movement of livestock.
• Coordinates and leads all aspects of the Junior Livestock Auction; marketing to potential buyers, publishing of materials and auction book, coordination of volunteers, and other duties deemed necessary to promote a successful event.
• Generates material, supply and labor budgets.
• Monitors and controls supplies, equipment, and awards according to the needs of Livestock Department and participants; orders supplies, tools, and awards as necessary; prepares documents for equipment procurement.
• Participates in the selection of staff; provides or coordinates staff training; directs staff in assembly, maintenance and disassembly of facilities for the shows and exhibits.
• Works safely (including office environments) and wears proper personal protective equipment.
• Uses established department IT systems; maintains appropriate digital files.
• Attends required in-person meetings and video conferencing sessions.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested when needed.

Qualifications

• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and guide exhibit workers; excellent customer service skills; follows oral and written instructions.
• Familiarity with and contacts throughout the agricultural community.
• Understanding of animal husbandry maintenance and production methods.
• Prior experience in the production of livestock shows encouraged.
• Member of related amateur or professional organization(s) not required but preferred.

• Experience in event planning, budget forecasting, and team building.
• Knowledge of consumer protection guidelines, policies, and procedures.

Working Conditions

• Indoor work includes periods of sitting, using a computer and other office equipment.
• Outdoor work includes exposure to weather conditions and fluctuating temperatures.
• Exposure to farm animals, dust, dirt, and unpleasant odors.
• Moderate physical exertion includes walking, standing, squatting, bending, and lifting to 75 lbs.
• Schedule requires work outside of traditional hours and, on some occasions, extended workdays.
• Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays outside of fair dates.