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Animal Breeding Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Poultry Vaccination Technician

Loretto, TN · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Working Conditions This position is performed in a commercial poultry breeding and agricultural environment. Employees may regularly be exposed to: * Live poultry and routine animal handling.

Keepers are also involved with our breeding program and help feed, train, and monitor the breeding pairs and chicks. Duties and Responsibilities: Animal Husbandry * Inspect diets for proper ...

Keepers are also involved with our breeding program and help feed, train, and monitor the breeding pairs and chicks. Duties and Responsibilities: Animal Husbandry * Inspect diets for proper ...

Keepers are also involved with our breeding program and help feed, train, and monitor the breeding pairs and chicks. Duties and Responsibilities: Animal Husbandry * Inspect diets for proper ...

Service Crew I

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$11 - $14.50/hr

... breeder farm operations across our region. Service Crew members travel daily from our office to ... Adhere to all company biosecurity, animal welfare, safety, and sanitation policies and procedures ...

Service Crew I

Lewisburg, TN · On-site

$11 - $14.50/hr

... breeder farm operations across our region. Service Crew members travel daily from our office to ... Adhere to all company biosecurity, animal welfare, safety, and sanitation policies and procedures ...

$18.25/hr

... animal care; maintenance of barns and equipment; pasture and fence management; interaction ... Goat breeding using natural method. 3. General and preventative health care including ...

Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science ... Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ...

Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science ... Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ...

Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science ... Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ...

Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science ... Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ...

... breeder tags; properly euthanize selected or weak/ill birds in accordance with company policy ... Must be willing to sign and abide by the Company Biosecurity and Company Animal Welfare Guidelines.

Animal Breeding information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$19

$25

How much do animal breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal breeding in Tennessee is $19.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $22.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal breeder?

An Animal Breeding job involves selecting and mating animals to enhance desirable traits in future generations. Professionals in this field apply genetics, nutrition, and reproduction techniques to improve livestock, pets, or wildlife populations. They may work in agricultural settings, research institutions, or conservation programs. Responsibilities include monitoring animal health, maintaining breeding records, and applying scientific methods to achieve genetic improvements.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an animal breeder?

To thrive in Animal Breeding, you need a solid understanding of animal genetics, reproduction, and husbandry, often backed by a degree in animal science, biology, or a related field. Experience with breeding software, artificial insemination equipment, and relevant industry certifications (such as AIC certification) is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring successful breeding programs, ethical animal care, and efficient collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by animal breeders, and how can they be managed?

Animal Breeders often encounter challenges such as managing genetic diversity, preventing inherited diseases, and maintaining high standards of animal welfare. Balancing the needs and health of the animals with client expectations and regulatory requirements can be demanding. Successful breeders stay current with best practices, leverage advanced reproductive technologies, and work closely with veterinarians and geneticists to address these issues. Proactive communication and careful record-keeping also help to anticipate and resolve challenges early, contributing to more successful breeding outcomes.

How do you become an animal breeder?

To become an animal breeder, you typically need a strong knowledge of animal genetics, health, and care, often gained through education or hands-on experience. Many breeders start by volunteering or working with experienced breeders, and some pursue certifications or courses in animal husbandry to improve their skills and credibility.

How much money does an animal breeder make?

Animal breeders typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, specialization, and location. Skilled breeders with certifications or working with rare or high-demand animals may earn higher incomes, especially if they operate their own business or farm.
Infographic showing various Animal Breeding job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 82% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,738 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Poultry Vaccination Technician

Aviagen Group

Loretto, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Aviagen rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

Job Description Summary:
The Poultry Vaccination Technician plays an essential role in supporting the health, welfare, and performance of poultry within Aviagen's breeding operations. Working as part of the Vaccination Crew, this position is responsible for assisting with bird handling, vaccination programs, health monitoring, sample collection, and other husbandry activities while ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare, biosecurity, and safety are maintained.
The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to providing excellent care for live animals in an agricultural environment.
Job Description:
  • Safely and humanely handle day-old chicks and birds of various ages in accordance with company Animal Welfare Standards and industry best practices.
  • Assist with vaccination programs by preparing birds, administering vaccines as trained, and supporting vaccination activities to ensure flock health.
  • Collect, move, and restrain birds for weighing, vaccination, health evaluations, and routine flock management activities.
  • Collect blood samples and other biological samples as directed for health monitoring and diagnostic testing.
  • Apply, remove, or replace identification bands and tags in accordance with company procedures.
  • Observe birds daily for signs of illness, injury, stress, or abnormal behavior and promptly report concerns to supervisors.
  • Support animal husbandry activities that promote bird health, comfort, and productivity.
  • Follow all Animal Care Standards, Animal Welfare Guidelines, and company Biosecurity Policies and Procedures to protect flock health.
  • Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and tools using approved detergents, disinfectants, and sanitation practices.
  • Maintain accurate records related to vaccinations, sample collection, bird identification, and flock activities.
  • Follow all Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) policies and utilize required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Work collaboratively with farm management and fellow team members to meet production schedules and flock management objectives.
  • Maintain clean, organized work areas while supporting overall farm operations.
  • Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
  • Previous experience in poultry, livestock, agriculture, animal husbandry, veterinary support, or farming is preferred but not required.
  • Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Comfortable working with live animals in an agricultural environment.
  • Demonstrated reliability, strong work ethic, and consistent attendance.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
  • Willingness to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as production needs require.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Commitment to humane animal care and welfare.
  • Ability to safely handle poultry while minimizing stress to the birds.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standardized operating procedures.
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced agricultural environment.
  • Basic recordkeeping and documentation skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding breeding stock and company operations.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness to learn new husbandry techniques and participate in ongoing training.

Physical Requirements
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
  • Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
  • Frequently bend, stoop, squat, kneel, reach, and twist.
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Perform repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements including gripping, grasping, and handling birds.
  • Safely handle live poultry throughout the workday.
  • Work with approved cleaning chemicals, detergents, disinfectants, and vaccination supplies while wearing appropriate PPE.
  • Perform repetitive production tasks while maintaining quality and accuracy.

Working Conditions
This position is performed in a commercial poultry breeding and agricultural environment.
Employees may regularly be exposed to:
  • Live poultry and routine animal handling.
  • Poultry houses, brood facilities, and other agricultural environments.
  • Farm-related dust, feathers, dander, and agricultural odors.
  • Cleaning chemicals, disinfectants, and agricultural sanitation products.
  • Loud equipment and production environments requiring hearing protection.
  • Indoor and outdoor work in varying temperatures and weather conditions.
  • Strict biosecurity procedures designed to protect flock health.

Work schedules may include up to six (6) days per week, including weekends and holidays, based on flock schedules and business needs.
Benefits
Aviagen provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees. Eligible employees may participate in medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Teladoc, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability benefits, subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable plan documents.
Additional benefits include:
  • Company-paid holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) beginning at 14 days annually, prorated based on hire date
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match (where eligible)
  • Training and career development opportunities
  • Company-provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Work Authorization
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and must maintain authorization to work in the United States throughout their employment with Aviagen.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Aviagen is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation,

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