Cattle Farm Steward Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the agricultural industry, the role of a cattle farm steward carries significant weight.
As the demand for sustainable and efficient farming practices grows, so does the need for skilled individuals who can manage, nurture, and protect our agricultural assets.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cattle farm steward?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply interested in the intricacies of cattle farming,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a tailor-made cattle farm steward job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get started.
Cattle Farm Steward Duties and Responsibilities
Cattle Farm Stewards play a pivotal role in the management and maintenance of cattle farms.
Their tasks revolve around caring for the livestock, ensuring their health and wellbeing, and managing overall farm operations.
The daily duties and responsibilities of a Cattle Farm Steward may include:
- Feeding and watering the cattle by ensuring clean and fresh water and feed are always available
- Inspecting cattle regularly to detect any signs of illness or injury
- Administering medication and vaccinations to cattle as prescribed by a veterinarian
- Maintaining cleanliness of the barns, pens, and other areas where cattle live
- Assisting in the birthing process of cattle and caring for newborn calves
- Keeping accurate records of each cattle’s health, growth, and production
- Managing farm personnel and ensuring they adhere to farming best practices
- Performing routine maintenance on farm equipment and structures
- Ensuring all farming practices are carried out in an ethical and sustainable manner
- Marketing and selling farm products, such as milk and meat
Cattle Farm Steward Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Cattle Farm Steward to manage and supervise all aspects of our cattle farm operations.
The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of cattle rearing, breeding, and farm management.
Responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, ensuring that the farm runs efficiently, maintaining equipment, working with veterinarians to ensure animal health, and managing farm workers.
Responsibilities
- Oversee daily farm operations, including feeding, milking, and animal health checks.
- Coordinate breeding and livestock nutrition programs.
- Manage farm workers and coordinate their duties.
- Maintain farm facilities and equipment, scheduling repairs and replacements as necessary.
- Work closely with veterinarians to ensure the health and wellbeing of cattle.
- Ensure the farm operates in compliance with local and national regulations.
- Prepare operational reports and analyses to track growth and profitability.
- Implement and uphold safety standards and protocols.
Qualifications
- Proven work experience in a similar role on a cattle farm.
- Deep knowledge of cattle breeding and rearing methods.
- Understanding of farm equipment, including maintenance and repair.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions and lift heavy loads.
- Good knowledge of local and national farming regulations.
- Strong leadership and organizational abilities.
- High school diploma or equivalent. Degree in agriculture or related field is a plus.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Housing allowance
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Cattle Farm Steward
- Work Environment: This role requires working outdoors in all weather conditions. It also involves physical labor and interaction with animals.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or Farm Operations Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 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 a Cattle Farm Steward Do?
A Cattle Farm Steward typically works on a ranch or farm where cattle are raised.
They may be owners of the farm or hired employees who have a deep understanding of cattle farming practices.
Their primary role is to ensure the health and well-being of the cattle.
This includes feeding them, ensuring they have access to clean water, and monitoring their health for any signs of illness or injury.
They are also responsible for the breeding of the cattle, which includes keeping track of breeding schedules, assisting in the birth of calves, and taking care of newborn cattle.
Cattle Farm Stewards also oversee the upkeep of the farm facilities.
They ensure the cleanliness of the barns, repair fences, and maintain feeding and watering equipment.
Additionally, they might be involved in business-related tasks such as buying and selling cattle, maintaining records of cattle inventory, or marketing the farm’s products, which could include meat or dairy products.
Part of their job is also to ensure that all farming practices adhere to animal welfare laws and regulations.
They stay updated on the latest research and trends in animal husbandry and apply this knowledge to their farming practices.
In some cases, the Cattle Farm Steward might also interact with visitors to the farm, giving tours or providing educational information about cattle farming.
Cattle Farm Steward Qualifications and Skills
A Cattle Farm Steward should possess skills and qualifications that align with the requirements of the role, including:
- Strong knowledge of livestock management, specifically cattle, including feeding, breeding, and health practices.
- Physical stamina and strength to manage daily tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and handling cattle.
- Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment.
- Observational skills to identify any signs of illness or distress in the cattle and provide or seek necessary treatment.
- Good time management skills to efficiently perform various duties like feeding, milking, cleaning, and maintaining the farm.
- Basic veterinary skills to provide immediate care when required and ensure the overall health and wellbeing of the cattle.
- Interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with farm staff and external stakeholders like veterinarians and suppliers.
- Ability to adhere to safety procedures and guidelines, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for both the cattle and the farm workers.
Cattle Farm Steward Experience Requirements
For entry-level Cattle Farm Steward roles, candidates are expected to have at least one year of experience, often gained through an internship or working part-time on a farm.
Key skills gained at this level include livestock care, equipment operation, and basic farm management.
People with 2 to 3 years of experience often have additional responsibilities, such as leading routine cattle health checks, assisting with breeding or calving, and maintaining farm equipment.
They may have gained their experience in roles such as Livestock Handler, Dairy Farm Worker, or other farming-related roles.
Candidates with over 5 years of experience are typically seasoned professionals who have gained extensive hands-on experience in cattle farming.
They are expected to have more advanced skills and knowledge in cattle breeding, pasture management, disease control, and farm budgeting.
Such individuals may have held previous roles as Farm Supervisor or Assistant Farm Manager, equipping them with leadership skills and the experience necessary to oversee the overall operations of a cattle farm.
Cattle Farm Steward Education and Training Requirements
Cattle Farm Stewards typically need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
However, many have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in agriculture, animal science, farm management, or related fields.
On-the-job training is a crucial part of the learning process for this role, where they learn the nuances of animal behavior, breeding, feeding, and disease control.
Cattle Farm Stewards must also be well-versed with safety regulations and procedures related to cattle farming.
Therefore, certification courses in farming safety, animal health, and welfare can be advantageous.
Depending upon the state, they may require a license to administer animal medications and vaccines.
The eligibility for these licenses typically includes completion of a relevant educational course and passing an exam.
There are also plenty of opportunities for continuous learning and development in this field.
For instance, many Cattle Farm Stewards may pursue advanced courses or certifications in advanced breeding techniques, organic farming, or sustainable agriculture to increase their knowledge and improve their skills.
Finally, the role requires a good understanding of business management and financial budgeting, especially for those who wish to run their own farms.
Therefore, some may choose to pursue education in business or financial management.
Cattle Farm Steward Salary Expectations
A Cattle Farm Steward can expect to earn an average salary of $35,000 (USD) per year.
This may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, location of the farm, and the size of the herd they manage.
Cattle Farm Steward Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Cattle Farm Steward need?
A Cattle Farm Steward should possess animal handling skills and knowledge about cattle health and nutrition.
They should have skills in farm equipment operation, basic veterinary care, and pasture management.
Furthermore, having good physical stamina, the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and basic record-keeping skills is also vital in this role.
Do Cattle Farm Stewards need a degree?
Cattle Farm Stewards typically do not require a specific degree, although some might hold a diploma or degree in agriculture or animal sciences.
Mostly, experience in cattle farming and a deep understanding of cattle care, feeding, and breeding is more important.
However, those with a background in animal science, farm management, or veterinary care may have an edge.
What should you look for in a Cattle Farm Steward resume?
When reviewing a Cattle Farm Steward resume, look for experiences in cattle farming, herd management, and knowledge of cattle diseases and treatments.
Also, consider whether the candidate has experience with the use and maintenance of farming equipment.
Check for any certifications or courses related to animal care or farm management, which may prove beneficial.
What qualities make a good Cattle Farm Steward?
A good Cattle Farm Steward has a strong work ethic and is dedicated to the well-being of the cattle.
They should be observant and attentive to the health and behavior of the animals, have good problem-solving skills to manage any issues that arise, and be organized in maintaining records of the cattle.
They should also be physically fit and willing to work in varying weather conditions.
Is it difficult to hire Cattle Farm Stewards?
Hiring Cattle Farm Stewards can be challenging due to the specific skill set and physical demand the role requires.
However, posting the job in rural areas where farming is common, or in agricultural publications and websites can help attract the right candidates.
Offering competitive wages and benefits for this hard work may also attract more qualified applicants.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve provided a glimpse into the reality of being a steward on a cattle farm.
Surprised?
It’s not just about feeding the cows.
It’s about shaping the future of sustainable agriculture, one herd at a time.
With our detailed cattle farm steward job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.
But don’t stop there!
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for designing precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every task on the farm contributes to the bigger picture.
Let’s cultivate that future. Together.
How to Become a Cattle Farm Steward (Complete Guide)
The Hot Pursuit: Trending Jobs You’ll Want to Chase
Joyful Careers: Jobs That Make Work Feel Like Play
Employment Envy: The Hottest Jobs Everyone Wants
Soul-Satisfying Careers: Jobs That Make a Difference and Delight