Livestock Herdsperson: Master Animal Care & Farm Ops

Smithfield Foods; Green Castle (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is seeking a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians in daily animal care and farm tasks at our Illinois location. You will help with feeding, vaccination, movement of animals, and general husbandry to support animal welfare and farm efficiency.

The role involves operating farm equipment, maintaining records, and following safety and welfare standards. It requires physical stamina, reliability, and a willingness to work long hours, including weekends and holidays, with on-site

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 work in standardized situations.
• Must be available for long hours including weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks.
• Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitizes and washes multiple areas on the farm with high pressure equipment.
• Processes piglets: injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, ear notching.
• Maintains accurate production information and records.
• Treats sick animals with pharmaceuticals by various methods as required.
• Follows SOPs, Production Manuals, or training guides as required.
• Assists with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Keeps barn, office area clean and assists with laundry duties.
• Complies with animal welfare policies and biosecurity laws.

Skills

Hard physical labor

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Follow instructions

Safety awareness

Reliability

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Smithfield Foods is seeking a Herdsperson to assist Herd Technicians in daily animal care and farm tasks at our Illinois location. You will help with feeding, vaccination, movement of animals, and general husbandry to support animal welfare and farm efficiency.

The role involves operating farm equipment, maintaining records, and following safety and welfare standards. It requires physical stamina, reliability, and a willingness to work long hours, including weekends and holidays, with on-site