Iowa State University is seeking a Program Specialist III – Meat Lab Team Leader to support the day-to-day operations of the ISU Meat Laboratory, including regulatory compliance and equipment maintenance. This position plays a critical role in supporting teaching, research, Extension, and production activities within a USDA-inspected facility.

The role oversees and guides student employees; assists with undergraduate and graduate instruction, faculty-led research, and fee-for-service activities; and supports meat science Extension programming. The position is highly hands-on, with direct involvement in animal harvest, carcass fabrication, value-added meat processing and packaging, and close collaboration with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders in a dynamic, production-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day operations of the ISU Meat Laboratory, including animal harvest, carcass fabrication, value-added meat processing, packaging, labeling, retail sales, and fee-for-service activities.

• Oversee, train, and coordinate student employees to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant laboratory operations.

• Operate and oversee specialized meat processing and packaging equipment in support of teaching, research, Extension, and production activities.

• Provide technical and operational support for undergraduate and graduate teaching, faculty-led research projects, and Extension programming, including workshops, short courses, and outreach events.

• Develop, implement, and maintain USDA-FSIS regulatory compliance programs, including HACCP, SSOPs, SOPs, humane animal handling, food defense, labeling, and required documentation.

• Conduct microbiological sampling, complete annual HACCP reviews, and ensure ongoing compliance with food safety and inspection requirements.

• Manage preventive maintenance programs for meat laboratory equipment, maintain maintenance records, and train students on safe and proper equipment operation.

• Maintain inventory and assist with procurement of supplies, ingredients, and equipment; communicate maintenance, repair, and replacement needs.

• Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience
• Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in animal science, meat science, food science or a related field
• Experience overseeing staff or student workers
• HACCP certified and experience managing and implementing HACCP food safety systems.
• Experience with animal harvest, carcass fabrication, and meat processing
• Experience operating and maintaining meat processing equipment including, but not limited to, meat saws, vacuum stuffers, grinders, mixers, bowl cutters, injectors, smokehouses, and packaging machines.
• Experience with humane livestock handling