Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Poultry

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for large-scale poultry operations near Tembisa, Gauteng. This leadership role oversees daily activities, welfare, feed management, biosecurity, and processing efficiency to drive profitable production.

The ideal candidate has a strong poultry husbandry background, proven team leadership, and a track record of improving operational efficiency and cost control within a dynamic farming environment.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years' hands-on experience in large-scale commercial poultry operations.
• In-depth knowledge of poultry husbandry, nutrition, health management, and biosecurity.
• Proven leadership and personnel management experience.
• Strong understanding of operational efficiency, cost control, and quality assurance.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Proficiency with farm management software and standard office applications.
• Willingness to work outside standard hours during peak periods.
• Valid driver’s license for travel between Gauteng sites.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day poultry farm operations: feeding, watering, ventilation, and temperature control.
• Oversee flock health and welfare programs with veterinary staff.
• Ensure strict biosecurity across all farm areas.
• Manage feed inventory and delivery schedules to minimize waste.
• Supervise and develop farm workers and foster a safe, productive environment.
• Monitor production metrics and take corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain farm equipment and schedule routine maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and labor laws.
• Contribute to budget development and manage costs.

Skills

Team leadership

Biosecurity

Cost control

Poultry husbandry

Flock management

Operations management

Education

Degree/Diploma in Animal Science or Agriculture

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent player in the Agriculture & Forestry sector, seeking an experienced and results-oriented Farm Operations Manager for their expansive poultry operations based near Tembisa, Gauteng. This leadership position is crucial for overseeing all daily activities, ensuring optimal bird welfare, feed management, biosecurity protocols, and efficient processing. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in large-scale poultry farming, with a proven ability to manage teams, control costs, and maintain high standards of production and quality. We are looking for a proactive individual who can drive operational efficiency and contribute to the company's continued growth and success in the competitive agricultural market. This role requires a blend of technical expertise in poultry husbandry and strong managerial acumen, ensuring the smooth and profitable operation of a significant farming facility located in the heart of Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of day-to-day poultry farm operations, including feeding, watering, ventilation, and temperature control.
• Oversee flock health and welfare programs, working closely with veterinary staff to implement disease prevention and control measures.
• Ensure strict adherence to biosecurity protocols across all farm areas to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Manage feed inventory and delivery schedules to ensure consistent supply and minimize waste.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of farm workers, fostering a safe and productive work environment.
• Monitor production performance, track key metrics (e.g., feed conversion ratios, mortality rates), and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain farm equipment and infrastructure, scheduling routine maintenance and repairs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations, environmental standards, and labor laws.
• Contribute to budget development and management, controlling operational costs effectively.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field is preferred.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in managing large-scale commercial poultry operations.
• In-depth knowledge of poultry husbandry, nutrition, health management, and biosecurity.
• Proven experience in team leadership and personnel management.
• Strong understanding of operational efficiency, cost control, and quality assurance in poultry production.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in using farm management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, hands-on environment, including occasional work outside standard hours during critical periods.
• A valid driver's license is required for travel between different site locations in Gauteng.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Our client provides opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading agricultural organization.
• You will work with modern facilities and cutting-edge technologies in the poultry industry.
• The role is primarily based near Tembisa, Gauteng , with some travel expected within the province.
• Join a company committed to sustainable practices and animal welfare.