Herdsperson Trainee: Livestock Care & Farm Ops

Smithfield Foods; North Carolina; On-site; USD 19,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is hiring a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians with daily care and general farm tasks, ensuring animal welfare and health. The role includes sanitation, animal movement, and operation of farm equipment as directed.

Full-time, with start pay of $16.75 per hour plus incentives. Candidates must be able to perform physical labor, work flexible hours, and maintain a clean, safe work environment. Training provided and advancement opportunities available.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous livestock handling helpful.
• Ability to do hard physical labor.
• Strong commitment to teamwork.
• Willingness to shower daily in and out of facility.
• Must be able to work an average 48-hour work week, which can vary frequently.
• Weekend, evening, and holiday work required as needed.
• On call for emergency situations to include power outages or staffing shortages.
• Ability to work well with others in fast paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks including basic veterinary procedures.
• Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitizes and washes multiple areas on the farm using high pressure equipment.
• Processes piglets: injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, ear notching.
• Maintains accurate production information and updates department records as required.
• Treats sick animals with various pharmaceuticals by injection, oral application, or other methods.
• Follows SOPs, Production Manuals, or training guides as required.

Skills

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Personal hygiene

On-call readiness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Farm equipment operation

Job description

Smithfield Foods is hiring a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians with daily care and general farm tasks, ensuring animal welfare and health. The role includes sanitation, animal movement, and operation of farm equipment as directed.

Full-time, with start pay of $16.75 per hour plus incentives. Candidates must be able to perform physical labor, work flexible hours, and maintain a clean, safe work environment. Training provided and advancement opportunities available.