Pen Maintenance Lead

Niewohnerbros; Elgin (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Niewohnerbros in Elgin, Illinois is seeking a Maintenance Operations Leader to ensure the functionality of livestock pens while promoting safety and animal welfare standards. This role requires extensive experience with heavy equipment, mechanical skills, and a valid driver's license. Responsibilities include leading a maintenance team, planning maintenance tasks efficiently, and fostering collaboration among teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to safety and quality in all operations, working outdoors in various conditions.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience operating heavy equipment in an agricultural setting.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for repairing fencing, water systems, and facility components.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction for all pen maintenance operations.
• Ensure proper operation of heavy equipment and adherence to safety procedures.
• Plan and prioritize daily maintenance tasks to maximize efficiency.
• Foster a positive work environment built on respect and collaboration.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Provides leadership and direction for all pen maintenance operations, ensuring the structural integrity, cleanliness, and functionality of livestock pens and other items needed within the feedlot/farming enterprise. Promotes high standards of animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and operational efficiency while leading and developing a high-performing maintenance team.

Job Responsibilities

Safety

• Lead and enforce a safety-first culture in all activities.
• Ensure proper operation of heavy equipment and adherence to all safety procedures, including PPE use.
• Identify, report, and correct hazards related to equipment, facilities, and pen conditions.
• Train team members on safe work practices, pen hazards, equipment operation, and material handling.
• Maintain compliance with all environmental and workplace safety regulations.

Quality

• Ensure pens, fences, bunks, and water systems are maintained to high functional and durability standards.
• Maintain proper pen conditions to support animal health, comfort, and performance.
• Verify that manure management and drainage systems function effectively to prevent buildup and runoff issues.
• Inspect completed work to ensure repairs are done correctly and meet company expectations.
• Maintain consistent standards of cleanliness and organization across all areas.

Productivity

• Plan and prioritize daily and seasonal maintenance tasks to maximize efficiency.
• Ensure timely completion of pen cleaning, repairs, and manure hauling schedules.
• Optimize use of labor, equipment, and materials to reduce downtime and costs.
• Anticipate maintenance needs and address issues proactively to prevent larger repairs.
• Track and minimize waste while improving workflow processes.

Teamwork

• Lead, train, and support maintenance crew members to build a skilled and accountable team.
• Communicate clearly with feed, cattle, and management teams to coordinate activities.
• Foster a positive work environment built on respect, accountability, and collaboration.
• Provide ongoing coaching and constructive feedback to improve individual and team performance.
• Step in as needed to support team members and ensure work is completed effectively.
• Maintain consistent and reliable attendance to meet operational demands.
• Demonstrate flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, or seasonal demands as required.
• Ensure adequate team coverage for all maintenance functions.
• Communicate promptly regarding schedule changes, delays, or absences.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Extensive experience operating heavy equipment in an agricultural setting.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for repairing fencing, water systems, and facility components.
• Valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physically demanding labor, including stooping, kneeling, and crawling.