Livestock Manager

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Accommodation provided

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Livestock Manager in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA to oversee daily herd management, breeding programs, nutrition, and facilities. You will ensure health, welfare, and productivity while leading a team and maintaining records.

The role requires 5+ years in livestock management, with strong knowledge of nutrition and biosecurity. The position emphasizes animal welfare and operational efficiency in a significant agricultural operation.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Animal Science, Agriculture, Veterinary Technology, or related field.
• 5+ years of livestock management experience with herd health and breeding.
• Strong knowledge of animal nutrition, physiology, and common livestock diseases.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily herd management including feeding, watering, and care.
• Implement and manage breeding programs to optimize reproduction.
• Monitor animal health and liaise with veterinary services as needed.
• Develop and manage feed rations and nutrition plans.
• Maintain facilities, pens, barns, and fences for safety and sanitation.
• Manage animal records including births, health treatments, and movements.
• Ensure adherence to animal welfare regulations and biosecurity measures.
• Supervise and train livestock handling staff.
• Manage inventory of feed, veterinary supplies, and other materials.
• Collaborate with farm management on production targets and strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Record-keeping

Data management

Biosecurity

Problem solving

Team management

Education

Degree or diploma in Animal Science/Agriculture/Veterinary Tech

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural operation, is seeking a highly capable Livestock Manager to oversee their herd management practices in **Soweto, Gauteng, ZA**. This role is pivotal in ensuring the health, welfare, and productivity of the livestock. The Livestock Manager will be responsible for daily herd management, implementing breeding programs, managing feed and nutrition, maintaining facilities, and ensuring compliance with all relevant animal welfare and biosecurity standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in livestock husbandry, strong leadership abilities, and a thorough understanding of modern animal agriculture practices. This position requires dedication to animal well-being and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily management of the livestock herd, including feeding, watering, and general care.
• Implement and manage breeding programs to optimize herd reproduction and genetic improvement.
• Monitor animal health closely, identify signs of illness or distress, and implement appropriate treatment protocols or liaise with veterinary services.
• Develop and manage feed rations and nutrition plans to ensure optimal growth and health.
• Maintain livestock facilities, including pens, barns, and fences, ensuring they are safe and sanitary.
• Manage animal records, including birth, health treatments, breeding, and movement data.
• Ensure strict adherence to animal welfare regulations and biosecurity measures.
• Supervise and train livestock handling staff, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Manage inventory of feed, veterinary supplies, and other livestock-related materials.
• Collaborate with farm management on production targets and operational strategies.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Animal Science, Agriculture, Veterinary Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in livestock management, with practical experience in herd health and breeding.
• Strong knowledge of animal nutrition, physiology, and common livestock diseases.
• Proven ability to manage and motivate a team of workers.
• Excellent record-keeping and data management skills.
• Familiarity with livestock handling equipment and techniques.
• Good understanding of biosecurity and animal welfare principles.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Valid driver's license.
• Knowledge of specific livestock types relevant to the operation (e.g., cattle, sheep, goats) is essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Accommodation provided or subsidized.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Direct impact on animal welfare and farm productivity.
• A stable and supportive work environment.
• Paid leave and other statutory benefits.