Senior Farm Technician - Aquaculture

TITLE: Senior Farm Technician Aquaculture

DEPARTMENT: School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences

REPORTS TO: Aquaculture Farm Manager

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

LOCATION: On-Site-Main Campus

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Senior Farm Technician – Aquaculture supports the operation of the Aquaculture Research Center by assisting the Farm Manager in maintaining facilities, equipment, and systems to ensure effective support of research projects. This position requires a broad range of technical skills in facility management, mechanical systems, and compliance with safety standards. The Senior Farm Technician also assists in coordinating daily operations that contribute to the success of aquaculture research and production activities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

• Assist the Farm Manager in maintaining and managing the Aquaculture Research Center to support research projects.
• Perform facility and equipment upkeep, including vehicles, mechanical systems, plumbing, electrical systems, and structural repairs.
• Assist with building systems maintenance and ensure safe, functional operations of research spaces.
• Maintain accurate records related to maintenance, compliance, and facility operations.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory codes and procedures.
• Maintain clean and organized work and research areas.
• Operate and maintain tools, equipment, and software necessary for facility and farm operations.
• Provide support for farm-related duties, including harvesting, animal care assistance, and related activities as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of aquaculture farm operations and activities.
• Knowledge of plumbing, construction, mechanical, and electrical systems.
• Ability to perform repairs and preventative maintenance.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations and ability to apply them effectively.
• Skill in operating and maintaining tools, equipment, and software related to farm operations.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively within a team.
• Initiative, resourcefulness, punctuality, and professionalism.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: 

• Provides supervisory oversight of Farm Technicians and seasonal/part-time employees.
• Responsible for assigning tasks, monitoring work performance, and ensuring adherence to safety and operational procedures.

OTHER DUTIES: 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least two (2) years of directly related experience in farm operations, facility maintenance, or aquaculture preferred.
• Supervisory experience preferred.
• Herbicide applicator certification desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• Work involves exposure to outdoor elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
• Moderate to strenuous physical activity required. Must be able to lift and carry objects weighing 50 pounds or more.
• Work may involve standing, walking, bending, or performing manual labor for extended periods.
• Work environment may involve some exposure to hazards or physical risks, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures.
• Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.