Practicum Student - Livestock Technologies Research

Applying for a Job

As a global leader in student-managed learning opportunities, we are committed to developing leaders at Lakeland College. It’s something we excel at because of our exceptional team. Their passion and commitment to academic excellence, innovation and achievement is what sets Lakeland apart, as an educator and an employer. Join our team and be part of helping our students take the lead not only into the future, but today.

Key Responsibilities

• Under the guidance of Susan Markus, Research Scientists in Livestock Technologies, and the livestock research associate, you will provide technical support for research projects and daily farm activities and chores as applicable to the research program. 
• The primary projects that these positions will support include:

1. Don't throw your Profits out with the Pasture Water; Proactive water quality monitoring for grazing beef cattle.
2. Don't Fence Me In: Assessing Virtual Fencing technology to improve beef industry grazing efficiencies.
3. Virtual Fencing Technology for Enhanced Bison Stewardship.

• During the practicum, you will be assigned a specific project but will work closely with other practicum students and research staff and will be involved in other projects.
• Major tasks involve data collection, operating agricultural equipment (that may include a drone or ATV), animal handling, animal behaviour and health checks, organizing and maintaining research data/files, and collecting, storing and transporting samples; all under various research protocols.
• Other duties include entering data into electronic databases and reports, managing web-based platform or app data for the remote sensing weighing equipment, creating and maintaining project photo databases, assisting with preparation of research reports and directing other paperwork to ensure timely submission. Assisting scientists with presenting research findings at field days, producer events or writing media articles is expected.

• Research activities center around following approved protocols for research as well as animal care, animal and human safety and biosecurity. Specifically, cattle observations on pasture will be required during the summer and fall seasons and may be in remote areas requiring travel.

Job Requirements

• A current student enrolled in or a recent graduate of a Diploma/Degree in Agriculture Technology, Animal Science or a related field.
• Experience with animal husbandry and working with large animals such as beef and dairy. Skills in solar powered equipment troubleshooting and wire fence repair would be an asset.
• A basic understanding of animal research designs, data-collection methodologies and an aptitude for emerging technological applications or tools.
• Experience with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong interpersonal, networking, time management and communication skills.
• Attention to detail and discipline in collecting and classifying repetitive animal behaviour observations for building datasets.
• Travel to the cattle and pasture for daily or weekly observations and working alone are expected.

Keys to Your Success

• Self-motivated; curious with ability to work under minimal direction to prioritize and execute tasks; professional accountability.
• Effective goal setting with solid organizational and planning skills.
• Demonstrates a positive attitude; ability to lead and motivate others and be committed to collaboration.
• Valid class 5 license, skilled in hauling a trailer or flatdeck, safe driving record and access to a vehicle for transportation to and from the research sites. A college vehicle may be available for some of the required travel.

Additional Information

Up to 2 full-time 4-8 month practicum positions based in Vermilion are available, commencing between April 26^th and May 3^rd, 2027.  Lakeland College offers an attractive remuneration package.  Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Competition will remain open until suitable candidates are found. All resumes are to be submitted electronically on our website www.Lakelandcollege.ca

For further information, please contact Francois Paradis, Dean of Applied Research at 780-853-8571 or Susan Markus, Research Scientist, Livestock Applied Research at 403-741-6850.