Poultry Breeder Barn Operator

Summary

At Atlantic Poultry Incorporated (API) we are committed to feeding our communities through stewardship of the land and animals in our care to inspire the next generation of Atlantic Canadian Farmers. API is a proud supporter of the poultry industry, providing feed, chicks, and fresh eggs year around to our customers throughout Atlantic Canada.

The Breeder Barn Operator will work as part of the Breeder farm team to ensure the company’s animal husbandry practices are followed. The responsibilities of a Breeder Barn Operator include monitoring feed and water; monitoring and adjusting ventilation and pen temperatures; maintaining overall good flock health, grading hatching eggs, following feed programs, and weighing birds. The Breeder Barn Operator will maintain accurate daily records of feed and water consumption, mortality rates and other relevant information and follow company bio-security protocols. The Breeder Barn Operator will be responsible for accurate and completed paperwork in addition to learning and assisting in barn computer operation. The Breeder Barn Operator will ensure their assigned production areas are clean and good pen conditions are maintained.

The Breeder Barn Operator will assist Barn Technicians with barn setup and preparation for new flocks. The individual in this position will also help with the transfer of birds from grow to lay barns.

Schedule

The work schedule for this position is a rotation that includes weekends, averaging 35 - 40 hours per week. The individual must be able to work flexible hours, including scheduled holidays.

Position Accountabilities

• Support with monitoring feed levels
• Ensure water quality and supply are adequate
• Monitor and regulate ventilation and temperature as required
• Collect and grading hatching eggs
• Daily barn maintenance i.e., cleaning floors, garbage removal
• Ensure feed tanks are emptied and feed pads are clean
• Spread shavings
• Maintain pen conditions
• Assist with vaccination when needed
• Assist with flock management – with culling as needed
• Accurately complete paperwork and understand results, bring forward any concerns
• Learn barn computer operation
• Maintain accurate daily records
• Data inputting using electronic devices (tablet, smartphone)
• Learn & follow the CHEQ Program requirements
• Maintain the communication board in the production area
• Provide an environment free of animal cruelty, abuse and/or neglect for our poultry
• Protect the organization’s value by keeping all protected and proprietary information confidential
• Practice and follow bio-security protocol
• Follow all safety processes and procedures
• All other duties as assigned

Position Requirements

• Grade 12 or equivalent preferred
• Willingness to work with live poultry
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Experience in the agricultural industry and/or food processing preferable

• Valid Driver's License preferred
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs
• High attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving skills

Working Conditions

The position operates indoors in a farm/barn environment. The work environment may be warm and humid, dusty at times with strong odours, and noisy. Standing for long periods and repetitive tasks are common. Proper safety footwear and respirators are required and supplied with additional PPE is available upon request.

Compensation and Benefits

API also offers benefits covering a wide range of services for mental and physical health. Our benefits include, but aren’t limited to:

• Health and Dental
• Extended Health Care
• Participation in the API Pension Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Bonus Program Participation