Artificial Breeding Technician

Tasks & duties

Artificial breeding technicians may do some or all of the following:

Skills & knowledge

Artificial breeding technicians need to have:

• knowledge of different livestock breeds
• a good understanding of livestock anatomy
• good animal-handling skills
• basic computer skills to record data
• clear handwriting to complete records

Entry requirements

To become an artificial breeding technician you need to complete a training course with an employer, or a National Certificate in Dairy Farming (Artificial Insemination), provided by the Agriculture ITO.

You also need to have a current driver's licence and access to a vehicle in good working order.

Employers' training courses

The two main hirers of artificial breeding technicians are Ambreed and LIC (Livestock Improvement). Both offer training courses, which take about two weeks, and cover livestock anatomy as well as the practical skill of inseminating. LIC usually offers a job to people who complete its training course, although this is not guaranteed.

The National Certificate in Dairy Farming (Artificial Insemination) is completed through on-the-job training and part-time study.

Agriculture ITO - information about the artificial insemination course

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Artificial breeding technicians initially complete a one to two-week training course. After this, they work under the close supervision of a senior technician during their first season, before working unsupervised.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for artificial breeding technicians includes:

Related courses

Animal Husbandry

For more information, please refer to Career Services.