Livestock Care Technician

Smithfield Foods; Kinston (NC); On-site; USD 40,675,000 - 55,195,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods in North Carolina is hiring a Herdsperson to support herd technicians and care for animals, focusing on welfare and daily farm tasks. The role includes handling sanitation, animal movement, and basic medical procedures, with a compensation of $16.75 hourly plus incentives.

The candidate should perform physically demanding work, follow SOPs, and participate in team tasks while complying with safety and animal welfare policies in a dynamic farming environment.

Qualifications

• Must be able to perform essential duties and work in a physical role.
• Ability to adapt to farm leadership directions and changing plans.
• Willingness to shower daily and maintain hygiene on-site.

Responsibilities

• Feed, water, vaccinate and handle general animal care including basic veterinary tasks.
• Adapt to plan changes as directed by farm leadership.
• Assist in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitize and wash farm areas with high pressure equipment.
• Process piglets: injections, castration, docking tails, ear notching.
• Maintain production records and update department data as required.
• Treat sick animals with medications by various routes as needed.
• Follow SOPs, manuals, and training guides where applicable.
• Assist with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Keep barns, offices clean and manage laundry duties.
• Follow animal welfare policies and provide humane care and identification.
• Comply with environmental, safety and biosecurity laws and procedures.

Skills

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Ability to follow instructions

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Smithfield Foods in North Carolina is hiring a Herdsperson to support herd technicians and care for animals, focusing on welfare and daily farm tasks. The role includes handling sanitation, animal movement, and basic medical procedures, with a compensation of $16.75 hourly plus incentives.

The candidate should perform physically demanding work, follow SOPs, and participate in team tasks while complying with safety and animal welfare policies in a dynamic farming environment.