HERDSPERSON
POSITION OVERVIEW
Skyline Genetics is a leading bovine genetics company committed to advancing the quality and productivity of cattle herds across Canada and beyond. We are seeking an experienced, dedicated, and passionate Herdsperson to join our team and play a key role in the day-to-day care, management, and genetic development of our herd. We have a herd of roughly 100 beef cows that will calve in 2027, some of which are carrying client owned embryos. We also house clients’ donor cows and collect embryos from them on site.
This is a hands-on, full-time permanent position based at the New Glasgow PEI farm operation. The successful candidate will be focused on the feeding/bedding, health, welfare, and performance of our cattle herd while supporting our broader genetic program goals. The herdsperson will work closely with the Veterinarian and other support staff to as part of a team to ensure the smooth operation of the business.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
■ Daily Herd Management: Daily feeding, bedding, watering, and monitoring of cattle to ensure optimal health. Oversee donor and recipient females, monitor health, manage nutrition, and maintain safe, low‑stress handling practices. Assisting with calving, including supervision, record-keeping, and newborn calf care.
■ Facility & Pasture Management: During spring/summer/fall support fencing projects, rotational grazing setup and ensuring clean drinking water for cattle at pasture. Performing regular facility maintenance to ensure clean, safe, and functional working environments.
■ Reproductive Program Support: Assist with synchronization protocols, heat detection, donor preparation, and handling during ET/IVF procedures. Administration of medications, vaccinations, and treatments under veterinary guidance.
■ Technical Support: During busy embryo collection days, candidate will be required to assist preparing supplies, maintain sterile workspaces, setup equipment as needed for the procedure being performed that day.
■ Record Keeping: Maintain accurate data for treatments, heats, inventories, and reproductive outcomes. Maintaining detailed and accurate herd records including weights, health events, and breeding data.
■ Client Interaction: Represent Skyline Genetics professionally during on‑farm visits and donor/recipient work at client operations.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Required:
- Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience working with beef or dairy cattle in a professional or farm setting
- Must be able to proficiently operate a tractor for feeding and bedding purposes
- Strong working knowledge of cattle health, nutrition, and reproductive management
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a physically demanding environment
- Valid driver's licence
- Willingness to work flexible hours. Some weekend and holiday work will be required, especially during calving and busy seasons
Preferred / Assets:
■ Experience with AI and ET programs
■ Familiarity with livestock genetics programs and seedstock operations
■ Agricultural diploma or certificate, or equivalent practical experience
■ Proficiency with herd management software or record-keeping systems
■ First-aid certification
WHAT WE OFFER
- Very competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
- Opportunities for professional development and training
- The chance to work with some of Canada's top genetics in a growing, forward-thinking operation
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and why they are passionate about livestock genetics.
Applications may be submitted to:
✉ Dr. Michael Walker, [email protected]
☎ (902) 916-1229
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Skyline Genetics is an equal opportunity employer.
Pay: $22.00-$25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Work Location: In person
