Description
SUMMARY:
The Lyon Center for Gamebird Research at East Texas A&M University is a flagship research center with a mission to discover solutions for sustainable gamebird populations, train the next generation of gamebird professionals, and preserve our gamebird hunting heritage.
The Lyon Center is recruiting a highly motivated and experienced Gamebird Production Manager to develop, manage, and advance the center’s gamebird production program while promoting the center’s mission. We are seeking a creative and self-motivated leader in gamebird production to join our team of dynamic and supportive staff members. Under the direction of the director of the Lyon Center, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operation of our gamebird production facility, including cultivating gamebirds, supervising staff, integrating research, and adhering to animal use and safety protocols, while producing top-quality gamebirds. Candidates should have experience in gamebird or poultry production, with preference given to candidates with experience in quail production and knowledge of gamebird research and conservation.
We will work closely with the selected candidate to provide ample professional development, such as training opportunities, conference attendance, and career counseling.
ETAMU is a fast-growing public university with a strong reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and student success. With over 140+ degree programs, a 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and nationally ranked online and graduate programs, ETAMU is committed to transforming lives through quality education. Our employees benefit from a collaborative community, cutting-edge research opportunities, and outstanding resources.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsible for gamebird production, quality control, biosecurity, equipment, maintenance, sanitation, and procurement.
Develops and executes a gamebird production standard operating procedure
Monitors facility to ensure a safe working environment and to meet production and research goals
Monitors and maintains all eggs and birds daily in accordance with animal use, biosecurity, and safety protocols.
Provides accurate bird count (within 2%) and reduced mortalities (<10%)
Coordinates customer interactions and bird sales
Collaborates with faculty and staff to integrate research into production
Responsible for training, managing and evaluating performance of production facility staff
Participates in programmatic and strategic planning for the Lyon Center
Performs administrative tasks associated with the position and the Lyon Center
Supports and raises awareness of the Lyon Center and its mission
Requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience. 5+ years of related professional experience in the poultry or gamebird industry with at least 3 years in a leadership role. Experience producing quail is preferred. The ideal candidate has a passion for gamebirds, hunting, and the outdoors.
Knowledge / Skills: Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge and experience with biosecurity practices. Excellent leaderships skills. Proficient computer skills to produce production metrics and meet production goals. Strong organizational skills. Excellent skills in community engagement. Experience operating farm machinery is a plus.
Ability to: organize and prioritize work, operate within a budget, communicate effectively with supervisor and staff, adapt to changing schedules and seasonal workloads, manage facility and staff, identify problems and recommend solutions, ensure compliance, and represent the Lyon Center with professionalism.
Licensing/Professional Certifications: N/A
Physical Requirements: Ability to walk, stand, bend, and lift for extended periods, ability to lift 50 lbs., be outdoors for extended periods, ability to communicate for the duration of shifts or events.
Other Requirements: May be required to work weekends or work hours outside of a normal schedule. Possible exposure to dust, animal dander, heat/humidity, direct sunlight, animal byproducts (including mortality), precipitation, and mud.
PREFERRED EDUCATION / SKILLS/ EXPERIENCE:
The ideal candidate:
Has experience managing a quail production facility, supervising staff, and selling top-quality birds.
Has ability to develop, manage, and advance the center’s gamebird production program
Demonstrates proficiency in biosecurity and workplace safety.
Demonstrates impeccable organizational and time management skills.
Is detail-oriented with the ability to meet deadlines.
Understands the importance of research in gamebird production.
Prioritizes the mission of the Lyon Center for Gamebird Research.
Exudes professionalism.
Has experience working in a higher education setting or familiarity with university processes, or working with research, conservation, or non-profit organizations.
Enjoys interacting with the public, donors, public agencies, and corporate and non-profit partners.
Has a passion and understanding for gamebirds, conservation, and/or the outdoors.
SUPERVISION OF OTHERS:
Production facility staff
