Animal Feedlot Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving world of agriculture, the importance of animal feedlot managers is more significant than ever.

As the industry advances, the demand for proficient individuals who can effectively manage, improve, and protect our animal feedlot operations becomes more pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an animal feedlot manager?

Whether you are:

• A job hunter trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or just fascinated by the intricate dynamics of feedlot management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable animal feedlot manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s get straight to it.

Animal Feedlot Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Feedlot Managers oversee the daily operations of facilities where animals, typically livestock, are fed and fattened.

They ensure the health, growth, and wellbeing of the animals while maintaining cost-effective feeding procedures.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Develop and implement operational plans for the feedlot
• Ensure compliance with government regulations and animal welfare standards
• Monitor the health status of livestock and arrange for veterinary care when necessary
• Manage feed schedules and adjust as necessary to ensure optimal growth and health of animals
• Oversee maintenance and repairs of feedlot facilities and equipment
• Manage the inventory and procurement of feed and other necessary supplies
• Implement quality control measures to ensure feed ingredients are stored properly and diets are accurately mixed
• Coordinate and supervise the work of feedlot staff
• Prepare reports on feedlot operations, including animal growth, feed consumption, and health issues
• Coordinate the sale and transport of fattened animals
• Stay updated on latest feed nutrition and animal health research

 

Animal Feedlot Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled and knowledgeable Animal Feedlot Manager to oversee the operations of our animal feedlots.

This role will involve managing livestock, ensuring their health and wellbeing, overseeing feeding procedures, and maintaining proper sanitation practices.

The ideal candidate has experience in animal husbandry, understands animal nutrition, and is familiar with livestock handling protocols.

The Feedlot Manager is responsible for ensuring the overall health and productivity of the livestock and compliance with all relevant regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the feedlot.
• Manage and monitor animal health and wellbeing, ensuring all animals are properly fed and cared for.
• Ensure that proper sanitation and cleanliness standards are maintained in all areas of the feedlot.
• Develop and implement procedures for feeding, health care, and animal handling.
• Coordinate with veterinarians and other professionals for health checks and disease prevention.
• Monitor animal growth and production, making adjustments as necessary to improve efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Manage feedlot staff, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Prepare reports on livestock health, growth, and productivity.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Animal Feedlot Manager or similar role in livestock management.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry and livestock handling protocols.
• Understanding of animal nutrition and diet formulation.
• Proficiency in managing staff and coordinating workflows.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and excellent decision-making skills.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment, including lifting heavy items and working in all weather conditions.
• A degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuous training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Feedlot Manager
• Work Environment: This role involves working outdoors in a range of weather conditions. Physical tasks such as lifting and moving heavy items may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Operations Director or Farm Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal Feedlot Manager Do?

Animal Feedlot Managers oversee the daily operations of feedlots, which are facilities where livestock are fattened up for market.

They manage the feeding schedules and nutrition plans for the animals, ensuring they receive appropriate diet for optimum growth and health.

They also monitor animals’ growth rates and health, adjusting food quantities and diet compositions as necessary.

Animal Feedlot Managers are also responsible for ensuring the sanitation and safety of the feedlot.

They must implement and enforce hygiene protocols, ensure waste disposal is handled properly and regularly inspect feed and water for contamination.

In addition, they are responsible for staff management and training, ensuring that all employees understand and follow animal care, feeding, and safety procedures.

Animal Feedlot Managers also handle administrative tasks such as record keeping of feed consumption, animal health, and growth data, and they often have a role in budget planning and control.

They may also interact with veterinarians, nutritionists and other professionals to ensure the well-being and productivity of the livestock.

They are expected to comply with animal welfare laws and regulations, and may also be involved in negotiating the sale of the fattened livestock.

 

Animal Feedlot Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Animal Feedlot Manager should have a multitude of qualifications and skills that align with the unique requirements of the role, such as:

• Profound knowledge in animal science or livestock management to oversee the care and feeding of livestock.
• Excellent analytical skills to monitor and assess the health and growth of the animals in the feedlot and make necessary decisions on their diet and living conditions.
• Strong leadership skills for managing and supervising the feedlot staff to ensure proper care and feeding procedures are followed.
• Effective communication skills for liaising with veterinarians, nutritional advisers, and other professionals, as well as for training and instructing feedlot staff.
• Good understanding of budgeting and financial management to control costs and improve the profitability of the feedlot.
• Problem-solving skills to address any animal health or operational issues that may arise in the feedlot.
• Keen attention to detail for maintaining accurate records about the animals’ growth, health, feed, and treatment.
• Physical endurance and stamina as the job often requires long hours of work in varied weather conditions.

 

Animal Feedlot Manager Experience Requirements

To become an Animal Feedlot Manager, a significant amount of industry-specific experience is typically required.

This often includes a minimum of 2 to 3 years of hands-on experience in managing an animal feedlot or a similar livestock operation.

Entry-level candidates may gain this experience through positions such as Feedlot Assistant or Livestock Handler, which allow them to learn the nuances of animal care, nutrition, and feedlot operations.

Having an agricultural background can also be beneficial in understanding the basics of animal husbandry and feedlot management.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are generally considered for senior-level Feedlot Manager positions.

This extensive experience often includes the management of feedlot staff, overseeing the health and welfare of the livestock, and ensuring compliance with environmental and animal welfare standards.

Those seeking managerial roles should have demonstrable leadership skills, strong decision-making abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of animal health and nutrition.

Experience with financial management and operational planning is also often required for high-level Animal Feedlot Manager positions.

In some cases, employers may prefer candidates who have a degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field, as this education can provide a solid foundation of knowledge and demonstrate a commitment to the industry.

 

Animal Feedlot Manager Education and Training Requirements

Animal Feedlot Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in animal science, agriculture, agribusiness or a related field.

Courses in livestock management, animal nutrition, agricultural economics, and business management are particularly useful to build a strong foundation for this role.

Given the technical aspects of the job, feedlot managers also need to have a good understanding of animal health and welfare standards, feed nutrition, and environmental regulations.

This can be gained through practical experience, additional courses or on-the-job training.

Some positions might require animal feedlot managers to have a master’s degree in animal science or agribusiness management.

Certifications in areas like animal welfare, nutrition, and environmental management can also be beneficial and may be required by some employers.

Experience in feedlot operations and management is highly valuable.

This could be obtained through internships, part-time work, or full-time employment in the industry.

Continued education and staying up-to-date with advancements in technology and livestock management practices are also important for career advancement and success in this role.

 

Animal Feedlot Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Animal Feedlot Manager is $60,000 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary based on factors such as experience, the size and location of the feedlot, and the specific duties required by the employer.

 

Animal Feedlot Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Feedlot Manager need?

An Animal Feedlot Manager should possess strong animal husbandry skills, including the ability to identify signs of disease and provide or arrange appropriate treatment.

They need excellent communication skills to interact with employees, vets, suppliers, and regulatory agencies.

As managers, they should be able to effectively organize, plan, and supervise the work of others.

They should also have good record-keeping skills to maintain detailed records of livestock and feed supplies.

 

Do Animal Feedlot Managers need a degree?

While not always required, a degree in animal science, agriculture, or a related field can be beneficial for an Animal Feedlot Manager.

More importantly, they should have extensive experience with livestock management and a deep understanding of animal nutrition, health, and welfare standards.

Certification in a recognized livestock production course could also be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Feedlot Manager’s resume?

An ideal Animal Feedlot Manager’s resume should highlight previous experience in a similar role, demonstrating their ability to manage livestock and oversee operations.

They should have knowledge of animal nutrition, health, and welfare, and show evidence of effective staff management.

Additional qualifications in animal science or agriculture are a plus.

Look for a track record of efficient problem-solving and successful livestock production.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Feedlot Manager?

A good Animal Feedlot Manager is committed to animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.

They should have strong leadership abilities, be detail-oriented to manage records and resources effectively, and have excellent problem-solving skills to deal with the challenges of livestock management.

Being resilient and able to work in all weather conditions is essential, as is the willingness to work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays.

 

What is the biggest challenge for an Animal Feedlot Manager?

One of the biggest challenges for an Animal Feedlot Manager is ensuring the health and well-being of the livestock under their care while meeting production targets.

This requires a delicate balance between efficient feeding practices, disease prevention and control, and maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for the animals.

They also face challenges related to environmental regulations, price fluctuations in feed and livestock markets, and managing a skilled workforce.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the intricacies of being an animal feedlot manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about feeding livestock.

It’s about shaping the future of livestock management, one feedlot at a time.

With our comprehensive animal feedlot manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this path.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every feedlot managed contributes to the bigger picture of sustainable agriculture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become an Animal Feedlot Manager (Complete Guide)

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