Hog Farm Herdsperson: Animal Care & Operations

Smithfield Foods; Green Castle (IL); On-site; USD 19,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods in Green Castle, IL is seeking a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians in routine animal care and farm tasks, focusing on welfare, growth, and breeding of pigs. You will operate farm equipment and may train for advanced technician designation.

Responsibilities include feeding, vaccinating, animal movement, sanitation, record-keeping, and following all animal welfare policies and safety procedures on site. Weekend and on-call duties may be required as part of a dynamic farm team.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous livestock handling experience helpful.
• Ability to perform hard physical labor.
• Strong commitment to teamwork.
• Willingness to shower daily in and out of facility.
• Average 48-hour work week with potential weekend, evening and holiday work.
• On-call for emergencies including power outages or staff shortages.
• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced environment.
• Respectful, approachable and team-oriented base.

Responsibilities

• Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks.
• Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitizes and washes areas on the farm using high pressure equipment.
• Processes piglets: injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, and ear notching.
• Maintains accurate production information and updates department records.
• Follows SOPs and training guides as required.
• Assists with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Follows animal welfare policies and procedures and safety guidelines.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Physical labor

Teamwork

Follow instructions

Adaptability

On-call

Shower daily

Long hours

Animal handling

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Smithfield Foods in Green Castle, IL is seeking a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians in routine animal care and farm tasks, focusing on welfare, growth, and breeding of pigs. You will operate farm equipment and may train for advanced technician designation.

Responsibilities include feeding, vaccinating, animal movement, sanitation, record-keeping, and following all animal welfare policies and safety procedures on site. Weekend and on-call duties may be required as part of a dynamic farm team.