Livestock Care Technician

Smithfield Foods; Unionville (MO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods in the United States seeks a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians in routine animal care and farm tasks, ensuring animal welfare and well-being. Responsibilities include sanitation, animal movement, and operating farm equipment as directed.

The role supports care of all animals, focusing on health, growth, and breeding, with potential training for advanced Herd Technician designation. A strong teamwork mindset is essential in a fast-paced farm setting.

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.
• Ability to follow instructions and deal with standardized situations.
• Must be able to work an average 48-hour work week, which can vary frequently.
• Weekend, evening, and holiday work required as needed.
• Must be on call for emergencies including power outages or personnel shortages.
• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks including basic veterinary procedures.
• Maintains flexibility with a willingness to change plans according to the direction of farm leadership.
• Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitizes and washes multiple areas on the farm using high pressure equipment.
• Processes piglets, including injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, and ear notching.
• Maintains accurate production information and updates all department records as required.
• Treats sick animals with a variety of pharmaceuticals by injection, oral application, and/or other methods as required.
• Follows the Standard Operating Procedures, Production Manuals, or Training Guides as required.
• Assists with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Assists with maintaining barn, office cleanliness, and laundry duties.
• Follows the Company's animal welfare policies and procedures including providing humane treatment and appropriate care.
• Responsible for complying with all environmental, safety and biosecurity laws and procedures.

Skills

Hard physical labor

Teamwork

Follow instructions

On-call for emergencies

Fast-paced environment

Respectful and team oriented

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Smithfield Foods in the United States seeks a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians in routine animal care and farm tasks, ensuring animal welfare and well-being. Responsibilities include sanitation, animal movement, and operating farm equipment as directed.

The role supports care of all animals, focusing on health, growth, and breeding, with potential training for advanced Herd Technician designation. A strong teamwork mindset is essential in a fast-paced farm setting.