Livestock Production Manager - Ruminant Specialist

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation on the farm

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Livestock Production Manager to oversee ruminant operations in Kimberley. You will ensure health, productivity, and welfare of the herd while driving operational efficiency on a farm-scale operation.

You will lead breeding and nutrition programs, implement biosecurity and welfare standards, and supervise farm staff. Adaptability to physical work and driver’s license are required for success.

Qualifications

• Degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Agriculture, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive livestock production management experience with ruminants (cattle or sheep).
• Deep knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, reproduction, and health management for ruminants.
• Proven leadership and people management skills.
• Experience with farm management software and record-keeping systems.
• Strong understanding of animal welfare standards and biosecurity practices.
• Valid driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the ruminant livestock farm, ensuring health and welfare.
• Develop and implement breeding programs to improve herd genetics and productivity.
• Oversee animal nutrition programs and feed formulations/delivery.
• Implement disease prevention and treatment protocols with veterinarians.
• Supervise, train, and manage farm staff and safety procedures.
• Manage pasture rotation, water supply, and infrastructure maintenance.
• Maintain detailed records of health, breeding, feeding, and production data.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations and best practices.
• Monitor herd performance metrics and drive continuous improvement.
• Contribute to sustainable farming practices.

Skills

Leadership

Animal husbandry

Record-keeping

Biosecurity

Problem-solving

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science / Agriculture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale agricultural producer with a focus on sustainable livestock farming, is seeking an experienced Livestock Production Manager to oversee their ruminant operations in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role is essential for ensuring the health, productivity, and welfare of the herd, as well as managing the operational efficiency of the farm. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of animal science, particularly in relation to cattle or sheep, coupled with strong management and operational skills. You will be responsible for implementing best practices in animal husbandry, nutrition, breeding, and health management. This is an excellent opportunity to lead a critical part of our client's agricultural business in a key region.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operations of the ruminant livestock farm, ensuring optimal animal health and welfare.
• Develop and implement breeding programs to improve herd genetics and productivity.
• Oversee animal nutrition programs, ensuring appropriate feed formulations and delivery.
• Implement and monitor disease prevention and treatment protocols in collaboration with veterinarians.
• Supervise, train, and manage farm staff, ensuring adherence to operational procedures and safety standards.
• Manage farm resources, including pasture rotation, water supply, and infrastructure maintenance.
• Maintain detailed records of animal health, breeding, feeding, and production data.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant animal welfare regulations and agricultural best practices.
• Monitor herd performance metrics and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable farming practices.

Requirements

• A degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in livestock production management, with a strong focus on ruminants (cattle or sheep).
• In-depth knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, reproduction, and health management for ruminants.
• Proven leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and direct a team.
• Experience with farm management software and record-keeping systems.
• Strong understanding of animal welfare standards and biosecurity practices.Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a physically demanding environment and adaptable to changing conditions.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, accommodation on the farm, comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund contribution, and opportunities for professional development.

This on-site role provides a stable and impactful career within the agricultural sector in Kimberley .

Join a team dedicated to high-quality livestock production and sustainable farming.

Our client values expertise and commitment, offering a rewarding work environment.