What are the responsibilities and job description for the Specific Pathogen Free Production Specialist position at VALO BioMedia?
Poultry Care and Data Collection Specialist
Position Summary
VALO BioMedia is a global supplier of Vaccine Eggs used in the production of human and animal vaccines and in pharmaceutical research. It is our clear goal to build and maintain long-term partnerships with established planning and supply procedures to ensure security and quality of supply for SPF Eggs and pullets at all times. The Poultry Care and Data Collection Specialist is responsible for the professional execution of poultry husbandry, data collection, and environmental monitoring within a controlled specific pathogen-free (SPF) production environment. This position applies technical knowledge of animal science principles to ensure animal welfare, data accuracy, and compliance with biosecurity, regulatory, and operational standards.
This role requires specialized academic knowledge or equivalent applied experience in animal science or a closely related field and supports critical biological production processes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The Poultry Care and Data Collection Specialist helps the production manager with several duties. Some of the primary responsibilities of this position are:
Essential functions are fundamental job duties performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Monitor and maintain poultry housing systems, including feed delivery, watering systems, ventilation, and environmental controls to ensure optimal bird health and production
- Apply biosecurity and SPF protocols to prevent contamination and preserve flock health and genetic integrity
- Collect, analyze, and record production and environmental data, including feed/water consumption, egg production, bird health indicators, disinfectant concentrations, and environmental conditions
- Utilize digital data systems (e.g., tablets, laptops, and specialized software) for real-time data entry, tracking, and reporting
- Administer feed programs and monitor nutritional intake in accordance with established production protocols
- Evaluate and maintain water systems, including sanitation, pressure, and additive administration
- Coordinate movement of birds and eggs across production areas while maintaining strict genetic and biosecurity controls
- Perform pedigree egg collection, identification, and documentation in accordance with traceability requirements
- Conduct routine sanitation, environmental testing, and facility inspections to meet animal health and regulatory standards
- Perform basic animal health procedures, including sample collection (e.g., blood sampling) and preventative care, following established SOPs
- Execute humane euthanasia when required, in accordance with animal welfare standards
- Support incubation and hatching operations, as needed
- Maintain compliance with all applicable animal welfare, OSHA safety, environmental, and biosecurity regulations
- Participate in ongoing technical and compliance training
- Perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs
Reporting Structure
Reports directly to the Production Manager.
Education and Experience
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Poultry Science, Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Animal Reproduction, or a closely related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
- Demonstrated knowledge of poultry biology, animal husbandry, or agricultural production systems
- Experience with data collection, recordkeeping, and basic data analysis
- Ability to use digital data collection tools and systems (e.g., tablets, smartphones, production software)
- Ability to interpret and follow technical procedures, SOPs, and regulatory requirements
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a related scientific field
- Experience working in a controlled or biosecure agricultural environment
- Familiarity with SPF or high-biosecurity production systems
- Experience operating agricultural equipment (e.g., forklifts, loaders, tractors)
Qualification Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualifications below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Biosecurity and Compliance Requirements
- Strict adherence to all company biosecurity protocols, including sanitation, controlled access procedures, and hygiene requirements (e.g., shower-in/shower-out where applicable)
- Employees must avoid exposure to external sources of contamination, including direct contact with poultry or other designated animals outside of work, in accordance with company biosecurity policies
- Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations related to animal welfare, workplace safety, and environmental standards
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
- Work is performed in agricultural production environments involving live animals
- Exposure to variable environmental conditions, including heat, cold, humidity, dust, odors, and noise
- Regular use of chemicals such as disinfectants and cleaning agents, in accordance with safety guidelines
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including standing, walking, bending, and repetitive motions
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays, based on production needs
Work Authorization
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
- Employer may consider candidates eligible for work authorization under applicable visa categories, including those requiring professional-level qualifications consistent with this role
Work Schedule
Early start time (4-5am some days), 30 to 40 hours a week, with weekends paying time and a half. Expectation of working 6 days a week.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
VALO BioMedia North America LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.