Senior Feedlot Operations Lead (20k+ head, On-Site)

JVR Software; Middelburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

JVR Software is seeking an experienced Feedlot Manager to lead daily operations for a large-scale cattle facility. You will supervise feeding schedules, animal health monitoring, and ongoing compliance with biosecurity and health protocols while coordinating with veterinarians, nutritionists, and suppliers.

The role requires 5–8 years in feedlot management, with proven experience managing a commercial operation of 20,000+ head and a strong background in nutrition, FCR, and staff leadership.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–8 years in a feedlot management role, with demonstrable experience at scale (20,000+ head).
• Proven experience managing a commercial feedlot with throughput/capacity in excess of 20,000 cattle.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Animal Science, Agriculture, or related field (advantageous).
• Strong working knowledge of cattle nutrition, ration formulation, and feed conversion ratios.
• Experience with biosecurity protocols, disease prevention, and mortality/morbidity management.
• Familiarity with feedlot management software/systems (e.g., Gigalot or similar).
• Strong understanding of South African animal health regulations (Meat Safety Act, Animal Diseases Act, etc.).
• Proven track record in managing large teams (herdsmen, processing staff, admin).
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to be based on-site.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily feedlot operations: feeding schedules, pen management, animal health monitoring.
• Manage cattle intake, processing, tagging, and backgrounding protocols.
• Monitor and report on key performance metrics: ADG, FCR, mortality/morbidity rates, cost per head.
• Ensure strict compliance with biosecurity, quarantine, and health protocols.
• Manage relationships with veterinarians, nutritionists, and suppliers.
• Oversee staff performance, training, and scheduling.
• Report regularly to senior management on feedlot performance and financials.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and internal SOPs.

Skills

Feedlot management

Team leadership

Animal health knowledge

Biosecurity protocols

Cattle nutrition

Performance monitoring (ADG, FCR)

Education

Animal Science / Agriculture degree

Tools

Feedlot management software (e.g., Gigalot)

Job description

JVR Software is seeking an experienced Feedlot Manager to lead daily operations for a large-scale cattle facility. You will supervise feeding schedules, animal health monitoring, and ongoing compliance with biosecurity and health protocols while coordinating with veterinarians, nutritionists, and suppliers.

The role requires 5–8 years in feedlot management, with proven experience managing a commercial operation of 20,000+ head and a strong background in nutrition, FCR, and staff leadership.