Animal nutrition is vital to animal health and welfare. From commercial livestock operations to companion animals, animal nutritionists play a critical role in ensuring that animals receive the proper nutrients they need to thrive.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in animal nutrition, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success. Here are five key steps to building a successful career in animal nutrition:
Step 1: Earn a degree in animal science or biology.
A degree in animal science, biology, or a related field is essential for a career in animal nutrition. This degree will provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Some of the US universities with animal science department includes Cornell University, Penn State, Iowa State University, Michigan University, and the University of Minnesota.
Step 2: Gain hands-on experience.
To set yourself apart from other candidates and demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field, gain hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, or related jobs. For example, you could intern at a feed company or a veterinary clinic, or volunteer at a farm, barn, or local animal shelter. These experiences help you develop valuable skills in areas such as animal handling, feed formulation, and nutrition consulting.
Step 3: Obtain certification from professional organizations.
Consider obtaining certification from professional organizations like ARPAS (American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists) or AAVSB (American Association of Veterinary State Boards) to showcase your expertise and dedication to the field of animal nutrition. ARPAS offers certification in nutrition, animal behavior, animal welfare, and more, while AAVSB offers certification for veterinary technicians.
Step 4: Stay up-to-date on industry trends.
The field of animal nutrition is constantly evolving, so staying current on industry trends is crucial. Subscribe to industry publications, such as Feedstuffs or the Journal of Animal Science, attend conferences and seminars, and engage with industry professionals to stay informed. Some current trends in animal nutrition include using alternative protein sources, such as insects or algae, and developing precision feeding technologies.
Step 5: Network with professionals.
Networking with professionals in the animal nutrition industry can help you learn about job opportunities and gain valuable insights into the field. Attend industry events, such as trade shows or conferences, and join professional organizations, such as the American Society of Animal Science or the National Animal Nutrition Program, to expand your network.
To build a career in animal nutrition, you need a solid foundation in animal science or biology. Gain hands-on experience through internships, volunteer work, or related jobs. You can also consider obtaining certification from professional organizations like ARPAS and AAVSB to demonstrate your expertise. By staying up-to-date on industry trends and networking with professionals, you can position yourself for a successful and rewarding career in animal nutrition.
For more information on careers in pork and poultry contact Trish Valenzuela at trish@continentalsearch.com
Trish Valenzuela
Practice Director, Monogastric Health & Nutrition
Continental Search
Ocean View, DE
www.ContinentalSearch.com
For more information on careers in dairy and beef contact Rick Pascual at rick@continentalsearch.com
Rick Pascual
Practice Director, Ruminant Health & Nutrition
Continental Search
Ocean View, DE
www.ContinentalSearch.com
