Veterinary Medicine Extern

Position Summary

The STgenetics Ohio Heifer Center (STOHC) Veterinary Internship provides an exceptional opportunity for students interested in developing practical skills and knowledge in bovine veterinary medicine. Working with a herd of nearly 5,000 animals ranging from newborn calves to lactating cows, interns will gain hands-on experience in animal health management, reproductive technologies, diagnostics, and maternity care.

Veterinary interns will rotate through the Embryo Transfer (ET)/In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Veterinary Services, and Maternity departments, working alongside experienced professionals while building a strong foundation in dairy herd health and reproductive management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Follow established calf health protocols, including colostrum management, nutrition programs, biosecurity procedures, vaccinations, and general husbandry practices. Monitor cows during labor and provide calving assistance when appropriate. Learn and participate in embryo transfer (ET) procedures and reproductive management protocols.

Develop an understanding of common diseases affecting dairy calves, including diagnosis, treatment methods, and preventative health strategies. Assist veterinary staff with herd pregnancy examinations and reproductive evaluations. Gain experience utilizing ultrasound technology for pregnancy confirmation and reproductive management.

Become familiar with various calf housing systems and understand the advantages and challenges associated with each. Assist with newborn calf care and health monitoring. Maintain accurate treatment, health, and reproductive records. Follow animal welfare, safety, and biosecurity standards. Work approximately 40-60 hours per week, including rotating weekend shifts.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications Basic knowledge of cattle care, animal husbandry, and livestock management. Ability to work effectively as part of a team while maintaining professionalism. Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision. Strong interest in bovine veterinary medicine, herd health, and animal welfare.

Positive attitude and willingness to learn in a fast-paced agricultural environment. Strong organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience handling cattle or working in a livestock environment. Pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, Pre-Veterinary Studies, Dairy Science, Agriculture, or a related field. Knowledge of cattle handling and restraint techniques. Familiarity with herd health management principles. Experience with herd management software is preferred but not required.

Interest in reproduction, embryo transfer, IVF, and dairy herd health. Physical Requirements Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor agricultural environments. Ability to safely handle and work around cattle of all ages. Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform physical tasks for extended periods. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.

Ability to work in varying weather conditions and farm environments. Ability to work rotating schedules, including weekends and holidays as necessary. Why Join STgenetics Ohio Heifer Center? Gain hands-on experience with a progressive dairy operation managing nearly 5,000 animals. Learn directly from experienced veterinary and reproductive professionals.

Develop practical skills in calf health management, reproductive technologies, pregnancy diagnosis, and maternity care. Gain exposure to advanced technologies including embryo transfer and IVF programs. Build valuable experience for future veterinary school applications and careers in animal health. Develop a deeper understanding of dairy herd management, reproduction, and livestock medicine.

STgenetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.