Livestock Farm Manager - Mixed Operations

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 76,000 - 114,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site housing or housing allowance

Medical aid contributions

Paid annual leave

Professional development and training

Stable role in established operation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Livestock Farm Manager to oversee a large livestock operation in Queenstown. You will manage breeding, feeding, herd health, grazing strategies, and supervise farm staff to ensure productive, ethical farming practices.

The role requires a degree or diploma in agriculture or animal science, 5+ years in livestock management, and strong leadership and record-keeping skills. On-site housing options may be provided.

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Animal Science, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of livestock farm management experience.
• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, breeding, and health management.
• Experience in pasture management and grazing systems.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic farm software.
• Must hold a valid driver's license.
• Willing to work long hours, weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the livestock farm, including feeding, watering, and health checks.
• Develop and implement breeding programs to improve herd genetics and productivity.
• Manage grazing plans and pasture rotation to ensure optimal feed and land health.
• Implement animal health protocols with a veterinarian for vaccinations and parasite control.
• Supervise and train farmhands and stockmen for safe, efficient work.
• Maintain records of animal performance, breeding, health treatments, and inventory.
• Manage farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring good working order.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare, biosecurity, and environmental regulations.
• Monitor operational costs and manage the farm budget effectively.
• Collaborate with management on strategic planning for herd expansion and development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Record-keeping

Farm software

Animal husbandry

Nutrition

Breeding

Health management

Education

Degree or Diploma in Agriculture

Animal Science

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified agricultural producer, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Livestock Farm Manager to oversee their operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is responsible for the overall management and performance of the livestock enterprise, ensuring the health, welfare, and productivity of the animals. You will manage breeding programs, feeding regimes, herd health, grazing strategies, and operational staff. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in animal husbandry, proven leadership skills, and a commitment to efficient and ethical livestock farming practices. This position offers the opportunity to manage a significant livestock operation and contribute to its ongoing success.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the livestock farm, including feeding, watering, and health checks.
• Develop and implement breeding programs to improve herd genetics and productivity.
• Manage grazing plans and pasture rotation to ensure optimal feed availability and land health.
• Implement and monitor animal health protocols, including vaccinations and parasite control, in consultation with a veterinarian.
• Supervise and train farmhands and stockmen, ensuring tasks are performed efficiently and safely.
• Maintain records of animal performance, breeding, health treatments, and inventory.
• Manage farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring they are in good working order.
• Ensure compliance with all animal welfare, biosecurity, and environmental regulations.
• Monitor operational costs and manage the farm budget effectively.
• Collaborate with management on strategic planning for herd expansion and development.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in livestock farm management, with a proven track record in managing cattle, sheep, or other relevant livestock.
• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, breeding, and health management.
• Experience in pasture management and grazing systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage staff effectively and foster a positive working environment.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic farm management software.
• A valid driver's license is essential for farm operations.
• Ability to work long hours, including weekends and public holidays, as required by farm operations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• On-site housing or housing allowance.
• Medical aid contributions.
• Paid annual leave.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in animal science.
• A stable role within a well-established agricultural operation.