Animal Breeder

The Animal Breeder is responsible for the health, productivity, and management of JLC's cow/calf herd across pasture-based operations. This is a professional, technical role applying formal training in animal science to herd health assessment, reproductive management, and breeding program execution — including artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) — in support of JLC's purebred and commercial cattle programs. The position also carries responsibility for herd movement between pasture units and for identifying and maintaining the fencing and containment infrastructure required to keep cattle safely within assigned grazing areas.

• Herd Health Monitoring — Conduct routine, hands-on evaluation of cattle at pasture to assess body condition, detect illness, injury, or distress, and determine appropriate intervention; administer treatments and vaccinations in line with herd health protocols established with the attending veterinarian; maintain accurate individual and herd-level health records.

• Calving Management — Monitor cows and heifers through the calving season; assess calving progress and provide obstetric assistance where warranted; process newborn calves (identification, weighing, records); recognize and respond to calving emergencies, coordinating veterinary support as needed.

• Breeding Season & Reproductive Management — Plan and execute the seasonal breeding program, including estrus detection and synchronization protocols; perform artificial insemination (AI); assist with and perform embryo transfer (ET) procedures, including donor preparation, recipient selection, and transfer; maintain complete breeding, gestation, and reproductive performance records to inform genetic selection decisions.

• Pasture Management & Herd Movement — Plan and carry out rotational grazing moves in line with the seasonal pasture management plan; assess forage condition and adjust stocking and movement schedules accordingly; ensure consistent access to water and mineral at each pasture location.

• Infrastructure & Containment — Inspect fencing and containment infrastructure across pasture units and complete repairs needed to maintain herd safety and containment; identify and report infrastructure needs (water systems, corrals, handling facilities) to support pasture operations.

• Other Duties — Additional responsibilities as assigned by the Cattle Operations Manager in support of JLC's cow/calf and seedstock programs.

• Bachelor's degree (or Licenciatura) in Animal Science, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary Science, or a closely related field.

• Demonstrated experience in cow/calf production, including pasture-based or extensive grazing systems.

• Hands-on training and experience in artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET) protocols, including estrus synchronization and reproductive record-keeping.

• Working knowledge of cattle health assessment and common herd health interventions.

• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work, including calving assistance and fence repair, in variable weather conditions.

• Valid driver's license.

• Outdoor, pasture-based work across JLC's cattle operation in all seasons.

• Workload intensifies during calving (late winter/spring) and breeding season, with early mornings, evenings, and weekend hours required during peak periods.

• Independent work at remote pasture locations, with regular reporting to the Cattle Operations Manager.

• Health Insurance — 100% of employee premium paid by JLC (HDHP, Client Cross), plus a $2,400 annual JLC contribution to Health Savings Account ($100/pay period).

• Dental Insurance — 100% of employee premium paid by JLC (Delta Dental).

• Retirement — 3% employer match on qualifying IRA contributions.

• Paid Time Off — 80 hours annually.

• Vehicle Repair Reimbursement — Up to $1,200 per year.

• Fuel — Covered for work-related use.

• Lunch — Provided Monday through Friday.