Animal Husbandry Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving field of agriculture, the role of animal husbandry workers has never been more critical.

As sustainable farming practices gain traction, the demand for skilled individuals who can nurture, manage, and protect our livestock population grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an animal husbandry worker?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional seeking to understand the core of this role,
• A farm manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the ins and outs of animal husbandry,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive animal husbandry worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or agricultural career sites.

Let’s get started.

Animal Husbandry Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Husbandry Workers are responsible for a wide range of tasks related to the care, breeding, and management of livestock animals.

These tasks may vary depending on the type of animals they work with, but generally include the following duties and responsibilities:

• Feeding animals and providing them with water, ensuring they have access to food and hydration at all times
• Monitoring the health of the livestock and administering basic veterinary care
• Assisting with the breeding process, which may include artificial insemination
• Maintaining the cleanliness of animal pens, enclosures and barns
• Assisting with the birth and care of young animals
• Recording details about animals, such as diet, health issues, and growth
• Insuring animals are securely housed, and monitoring their behavior
• Transporting animals between different locations
• Administering medications and vaccinations to animals
• Maintaining and repairing farm equipment and structures
• Conducting and managing animal slaughter in a humane way, for those involved in meat production

 

Animal Husbandry Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent and reliable animal husbandry worker to manage the daily care of our livestock.

Responsibilities include feeding, grooming, maintaining clean living conditions, and monitoring the health of the animals.

Our ideal candidates are compassionate toward animals and have a keen understanding of animal health and wellbeing.

Ultimately, the role of the animal husbandry worker is to ensure the welfare of our animals, maintain hygiene standards, and contribute to the productivity of our farming operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Feeding livestock and ensuring their access to water
• Cleaning and maintaining animal housing areas
• Monitoring animal health and reporting concerns
• Administering vaccinations and medications as directed
• Assisting with the breeding and rearing of young animals
• Performing minor veterinary procedures
• Keeping records of animal feed, health issues, and growth
• Maintaining the safety and wellbeing of all animals in your care
• Complying with animal health and welfare regulations

 

Qualifications

• Experience in animal husbandry or farm work
• Knowledge of animal behavior and wellbeing
• Ability to handle and restrain all types of livestock
• Physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy loads
• Basic numeracy and record-keeping skills
• Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Husbandry Worker
• Work Environment: Mostly outdoors in a farm setting. The position involves physical labor and exposure to all weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Manager or Animal Husbandry Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $40,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 Husbandry Worker Do?

Animal Husbandry Workers are professionals who are responsible for the daily care, feeding, and management of livestock and other domesticated animals.

They typically work in farms, ranches, or other facilities where animals are raised for meat, wool, milk, and other products.

Their duties include feeding the animals, cleaning and maintaining their living areas, monitoring their health, and assisting with breeding processes.

They may also administer medications, vaccinations, or treat minor injuries under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Animal Husbandry Workers often use machinery and other specialized equipment for milking, shearing, or feeding animals.

They may also be involved in the transportation of animals and their products.

Part of their role includes keeping accurate records of the animals’ growth, health, and production.

Animal Husbandry Workers often work closely with animal scientists or veterinarians to implement proper breeding or feeding programs.

In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that the animals are treated humanely and that the practices of the farm meet animal welfare standards.

 

Animal Husbandry Worker Qualifications and Skills

An effective Animal Husbandry Worker should have the skills and qualifications that align with the tasks and responsibilities of the role, which include:

• A strong knowledge of various animal species and their specific needs, including dietary, environmental, and health-related requirements.
• Interpersonal skills for interacting with coworkers, veterinarians, and other professionals in the field.
• Awareness of animal health and welfare regulations and ability to follow them strictly to ensure the well-being of the animals.
• Physical stamina and strength to handle large and potentially unruly animals, as well as perform tasks such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, and lifting heavy items.
• Observational skills to monitor animals’ behavior and physical condition for signs of illness or injury, and reporting any abnormalities.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues or challenges related to animal health, behavior, and care.
• Communication skills to effectively relay information about animals’ conditions to veterinarians and other relevant personnel.
• Ability to manage time and tasks efficiently as required for feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, and other daily responsibilities.

 

Animal Husbandry Worker Experience Requirements

Entry-level animal husbandry workers usually have about 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles on farms or animal care facilities.

They may have gained practical experience in handling, feeding, and monitoring the health of various types of animals.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience often have developed their skills in various aspects of animal husbandry such as breeding, vaccination, fodder management, and disease control.

They may have also gained proficiency in using animal husbandry equipment and understanding animal behavior.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have some management experience, overseeing a team of workers on a farm or a large animal facility.

They may have also been involved in planning and implementing breeding schedules, maintaining records of animal birth and deaths, and ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations.

A significant amount of practical experience is essential for this role, as the job involves hands-on care for animals.

A higher level of experience could lead to roles in animal husbandry management or consultancy.

 

Animal Husbandry Worker Education and Training Requirements

Animal Husbandry Workers typically require a high school diploma or GED as a minimum educational requirement.

However, for better career opportunities, a diploma or associate degree in animal science, animal husbandry, veterinary technology, or a related field is beneficial.

These programs will provide training in livestock management, animal nutrition, health and disease control, and practical skills like animal handling and operating farm machinery.

In addition to formal education, practical experience is vital.

This can be gained through internships, volunteering at farms, or part-time jobs in the animal care industry.

Some states may require Animal Husbandry Workers to be certified, especially if they administer medications or provide other veterinary care.

Continued education and training opportunities are available and often encouraged to keep up with advances in animal care, breeding techniques, and the use of new equipment and technology.

Even though not mandatory, many animal husbandry workers pursue advanced courses or certifications to improve their knowledge and skills, and to specialize in a certain type of animal or livestock management.

 

Animal Husbandry Worker Salary Expectations

An Animal Husbandry Worker can expect to earn an average salary of $28,590 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may vary based on the worker’s level of experience, the size and type of the farm they work on, and their location.

 

Animal Husbandry Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Husbandry Worker need?

Animal Husbandry Workers need to have a solid understanding of animal behavior and welfare.

They should possess physical stamina as the job often involves heavy lifting and manual labor.

Good observational skills are essential to monitor animal health and detect any signs of illness or injury.

They should also have good communication skills to interact with team members and veterinary professionals.

 

Do Animal Husbandry Workers need a degree?

Not necessarily.

Many Animal Husbandry Workers learn their skills on the job.

However, having a degree in animal science, veterinary science, or a related field can certainly improve job prospects and give workers a deeper understanding of animal health and behavior.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a formal education in a related field.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Husbandry Worker resume?

Look for experience working with animals, especially in a farming or veterinary context.

Any formal education in animal science or a related field is a plus.

Skills like physical fitness, attention to detail, and problem-solving ability should also be highlighted.

Certifications in animal welfare or health, if any, should also be noted.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Husbandry Worker?

A good Animal Husbandry Worker should have a genuine love for animals, and a commitment to their welfare.

They must be physically fit, as the role often involves strenuous physical activity.

They should be observant, able to spot signs of illness or distress in animals.

Patience, a good work ethic, and the ability to work well in a team are also important qualities in this role.

 

What are the daily duties of an Animal Husbandry Worker?

The daily duties of an Animal Husbandry Worker typically include feeding and watering animals, cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures, monitoring animal health and behavior, and administering medication or treatments as necessary.

They may also help with animal births, repair farm buildings, or operate machinery.

The specific duties can vary greatly depending on the type of animals they are working with and the size of the operation.

 

What are the challenges faced by an Animal Husbandry Worker?

Animal Husbandry Workers often work long hours in all weather conditions, which can be physically challenging.

They may also have to deal with difficult or dangerous animals, and the emotional strain of seeing animals in distress or having to euthanize sick animals can also be challenging.

The role also requires a constant vigilance to detect any signs of illness or injury among the animals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the heart of what it really means to be an Animal Husbandry Worker.

Surprised?

It’s not just about feeding and caring for animals.

It’s about shaping the future of animal care and agriculture, one day at a time.

With our ready-to-use Animal Husbandry Worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precise job listings or honing your resume to excellence.

Always remember:

Every task performed is a step towards better animal welfare.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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