Cattle Buyer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern agricultural industry, the role of cattle buyers has become increasingly significant.

With the continuous growth of the livestock market, there is a surging demand for skilled professionals who can assess, negotiate, and secure the finest livestock for their organizations.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cattle buyer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the world of cattle buying,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cattle buyer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Cattle Buyer Duties and Responsibilities

Cattle Buyers are responsible for negotiating and purchasing livestock on behalf of the company or clients they represent.

They must have a deep understanding of the livestock industry and be able to assess the quality and value of cattle.

Cattle Buyers are typically expected to undertake the following duties and responsibilities:

• Evaluate cattle for quality, weight, and health condition
• Negotiate and purchase cattle from auctions, private sellers, or directly from farms
• Monitor market trends and prices
• Establish and maintain relationships with farmers, ranchers, and sellers
• Keep detailed records of purchases, inspections, and transactions
• Coordinate the transport of purchased cattle to designated locations
• Work in compliance with animal welfare regulations and standards
• Consult with clients to understand their specific needs and preferences
• Communicate with veterinarians to ensure the health of the cattle
• Travel frequently to various selling points or farms

 

Cattle Buyer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled and experienced Cattle Buyer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and purchasing quality cattle for our organization.

The individual should have strong communication skills, a solid understanding of the livestock industry, and the ability to negotiate prices and contracts effectively.

 

Responsibilities

• Inspect and evaluate cattle for purchase based on factors such as weight, health, and breed characteristics
• Negotiate purchase prices and contracts with sellers
• Establish and maintain relationships with farmers, ranchers, and livestock dealers
• Stay informed about market trends and fluctuations in cattle prices
• Ensure compliance with animal health and safety regulations
• Coordinate transportation of purchased cattle to our facilities
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, payments, and inventory
• Work closely with the procurement team to manage inventory and meet organizational demands

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a cattle buyer or in a related role within the livestock industry
• Strong knowledge of cattle breeds, health standards, and market values
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Ability to travel frequently to ranches, farms, and auctions
• High attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping
• Ability to work independently and make informed buying decisions
• High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Company vehicle
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cattle Buyer
• Work Environment: This role requires extensive travel to various farms, ranches, and auctions. Office work may also be required for record-keeping and administrative tasks.
• Reporting Structure: The Cattle Buyer reports directly to the Procurement Manager or Director of Procurement.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $80,000 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. 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 send your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cattle Buyer Do?

Cattle Buyers typically work for meat processing companies, ranches, or dairy farms.

They can also operate as independent agents or brokers.

Their main role is to purchase cattle for various purposes such as meat production, dairy production, or for breeding.

They negotiate with farmers, ranchers, or livestock auctions to buy cattle at competitive prices.

Cattle Buyers inspect the livestock, evaluate their health, weight, breed, and other factors to ensure they meet the necessary standards.

They use their knowledge of the cattle market and current prices to make informed buying decisions.

They liaise with veterinarians to maintain the health of the purchased cattle and also coordinate with transport services for the safe delivery of the cattle to their new location.

They also ensure compliance with all livestock regulations and laws, and maintain accurate records of all transactions.

Cattle Buyers often build long-term relationships with sellers and are responsible for ensuring the quality of the cattle purchased to meet the demands of the buyers they represent.

 

Cattle Buyer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient cattle buyer should have a range of skills and qualifications that are in line with the job role, such as:

• Expertise in livestock evaluation, with the ability to assess the health, breed, weight, and other factors affecting the value of cattle
• Strong negotiation skills to secure cattle at competitive prices and on favorable terms
• Excellent knowledge of animal health and welfare regulations to ensure purchased cattle meet industry standards and legal requirements
• Outstanding communication skills to interact with farmers, auctioneers, and other stakeholders in the cattle industry
• Good understanding of market trends to make informed buying decisions
• Strong decision-making skills to make quick purchases at auctions and other sales events
• Mathematical abilities to calculate costs, evaluate bids, and manage budgets
• Physical endurance to travel frequently and work in different weather conditions

 

Cattle Buyer Experience Requirements

Cattle buyers typically start their careers with a background in agriculture, often gained through a degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field.

However, practical experience in farming, ranching, or livestock management is highly valuable in this role.

Entry-level cattle buyers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship, part-time role, or working on a family farm or ranch.

They may gain experience and knowledge in the grading and assessment of livestock, market trends, and auction processes.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have developed their skills in negotiation, livestock appraisal, and understanding market fluctuations.

They may have worked in roles such as Livestock Handler, Farm Manager, or Livestock Appraiser, which provide valuable hands-on experience.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a high level of expertise in livestock quality, market analysis, and price negotiation.

They may have managed large-scale purchases and have a broad network of industry contacts.

Such candidates are often ready for senior or managerial roles in livestock procurement and sales.

 

Cattle Buyer Education and Training Requirements

A Cattle Buyer typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, although a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, animal science, or a related field can be beneficial.

Knowledge about livestock, specifically cattle, is crucial for this role.

This can be gained through hands-on experience in farming, ranching, or working with cattle in some capacity.

Cattle Buyers also need to understand market trends, pricing, and the basics of animal health and nutrition.

Therefore, courses in business, economics, and veterinary sciences could be beneficial.

Though not mandatory, certifications from agricultural or livestock associations can demonstrate a candidate’s expertise and dedication to the profession.

Since much of the job involves negotiation and communication, interpersonal skills are important.

These skills can be developed through experience and various communication or negotiation training programs.

Some states require Cattle Buyers to obtain a license to operate.

The criteria for licensing can vary but often includes a minimum age requirement, a background check, and the completion of a licensing examination.

Continuing education is important in this role, as changes in livestock value, trade regulations, and animal health can directly affect the job.

 

Cattle Buyer Salary Expectations

A Cattle Buyer can expect to earn an average salary of $61,000 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate depending on the individual’s level of experience, the region in which they operate, and the company for which they work.

 

Cattle Buyer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a cattle buyer need?

A cattle buyer needs to have excellent negotiation skills to ensure the best price for quality cattle.

They also need good analytical skills to assess the health and value of the cattle being purchased.

Knowledge of livestock health management and the cattle market is also crucial for this role.

Further, they should possess good communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with farmers and other stakeholders.

 

Do cattle buyers need a degree?

While a degree is not necessarily required to become a cattle buyer, many employers prefer candidates who have a background in animal science, agriculture, or a related field.

Experience in the livestock industry can also be beneficial.

Some cattle buyers may also complete courses or receive certifications in livestock evaluation or marketing.

 

What should you look for in a cattle buyer resume?

A cattle buyer’s resume should highlight their experience in the livestock industry, particularly in cattle buying and selling.

It’s important to look for their knowledge of livestock health and quality assessment.

Experience in negotiating prices and developing relationships with farmers and other suppliers is also valuable.

Further, any credentials or certifications in livestock management or related fields would be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good cattle buyer?

A good cattle buyer has a deep understanding of livestock health and the cattle market.

They are excellent negotiators and are able to make quick, informed decisions.

They also have strong relationships within the industry, which can help them to find the best cattle at the best prices.

Lastly, they have a strong ethical stance to ensure the welfare of the cattle is prioritized.

 

What are the daily duties of a cattle buyer?

On a typical day, a cattle buyer may visit farms or ranches to inspect cattle, negotiate purchases, and arrange for transport.

They also spend time analyzing market trends to make informed buying decisions.

Additionally, they may maintain relationships with farmers and other suppliers, attend livestock auctions, and ensure they are up-to-date with the latest regulations and animal welfare standards.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unmasked the true essence of being a cattle buyer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about purchasing livestock.

It’s about shaping the backbone of the agricultural industry, one cattle deal at a time.

With our comprehensive cattle buyer job description template and real-world examples, you’re poised to make your move.

But why stop at the corral gate?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next stride towards precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every cattle purchase contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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