Livestock Care Technician — Herd & Welfare Specialist

Smithfield Foods; Pollocksville (NC); On-site; USD 19,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is hiring a Herdsperson to support Herd Technicians in caring for farm animals. Responsibilities include feeding, vaccination, animal movement, and sanitation. The role may involve operating farm equipment and training for advanced technician designation.

The position emphasizes animal welfare and compliance with safety and biosecurity guidelines. The successful candidate will work a demanding schedule, including weekends and holidays, with on-call responsibilities and a 48-hour

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 work an average 48-hour work week, which can vary.
• Weekend, evening, and holiday work required as needed.
• Must be on call for emergencies including power outages or staff shortages.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks.
• Maintains flexibility with plans according to farm leadership.
• Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitizes and washes areas on the farm using high-pressure equipment.
• Processes piglets: injections, castration, tail docking, ear notching.
• Maintains accurate production information and updates records.
• Treats sick animals with medications by injection, oral application, etc.
• Follows SOPs or training guides as required.
• Assists with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Maintains barn, office cleanliness and laundry duties.
• Follows animal welfare policies and environmental/safety guidelines.

Skills

Hard physical labor

Teamwork

Follow instructions

On-call

Fast-paced environment

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Smithfield Foods is hiring a Herdsperson to support Herd Technicians in caring for farm animals. Responsibilities include feeding, vaccination, animal movement, and sanitation. The role may involve operating farm equipment and training for advanced technician designation.

The position emphasizes animal welfare and compliance with safety and biosecurity guidelines. The successful candidate will work a demanding schedule, including weekends and holidays, with on-call responsibilities and a 48-hour