Livestock Manager - Large-Scale Pastoral Farm

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Accommodation

Annual leave

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Livestock Manager to oversee large cattle and sheep herds near Bloemfontein. You will lead breeding programs, feeding plans, health management, pasture rotation and supervise farm staff.

The ideal candidate holds a National Diploma or Bachelor's in Animal Science or Agriculture, with 5+ years in large-scale livestock operations, strong husbandry knowledge and proven leadership; on-site accommodation and medical coverage are provided.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of proven experience in large-scale livestock operations (cattle and sheep).
• Diploma or degree in Animal Science or Agriculture.
• Experience with pasture management and grazing systems.
• Ability to work independently in a remote rural setting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily management of all livestock, ensuring high standards of welfare and health.
• Implement and manage breeding programs to improve herd genetics and productivity.
• Develop and execute feeding plans, ensuring adequate nutrition and efficient feed utilization.
• Monitor animal health, administer treatments, and coordinate with veterinary professionals.
• Manage pasture rotation and grazing strategies to optimize land use.
• Supervise and train livestock handling teams, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Maintain accurate records of livestock, births, deaths, treatments, and sales.
• Procure feed, veterinary supplies and other inputs.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations and industry standards.
• Contribute to strategic planning for herd expansion and improvement.

Skills

Animal husbandry

Team leadership

Record keeping

Pasture management

Breeding programs

Remote rural work

Education

National Diploma in Agriculture

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a substantial pastoral farming operation, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Livestock Manager to oversee its extensive herds near Bloemfontein . This role is crucial for managing the health, welfare, and productivity of a large cattle and sheep population. The Livestock Manager will be responsible for breeding programs, feeding strategies, health management, pasture rotation, and staff supervision. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of animal husbandry, exceptional organizational skills, and a commitment to sustainable and ethical livestock farming practices in the Free State province.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily management of all livestock, ensuring high standards of animal welfare and health.


• Implement and manage breeding programs to improve herd genetics and productivity.


• Develop and execute feeding plans, ensuring adequate nutrition and efficient feed utilization.


• Monitor animal health, administer treatments, and work closely with veterinary professionals.


• Manage pasture rotation and grazing strategies to optimize land use and prevent overgrazing.


• Supervise and train livestock handling teams, ensuring safe and efficient operations.


• Maintain accurate records of livestock numbers, births, deaths, treatments, and sales.


• Manage the procurement of feed, veterinary supplies, and other essential livestock inputs.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant animal welfare regulations and industry standards.


• Contribute to the strategic planning for herd expansion and improvement.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field.


• A minimum of 5 years of proven experience in managing large-scale livestock operations, preferably cattle and/or sheep.


• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, reproduction, and common diseases.


• Experience with pasture management and grazing systems.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.


• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic farm management software.


• Ability to work independently in a remote rural setting.


• A valid driver's license is essential for farm-wide supervision.

Benefits

This position offers an attractive annual salary ranging from to ZAR , commensurate with experience.

• comprehensive medical coverage


• a retirement annuity contribution


• ample annual leave


• on-site or nearby accommodation


• Opportunities for further training in advanced livestock management techniques will be provided.

This is a significant role for an individual passionate about animal agriculture in the heart of the Free State .