Livestock Farm Hand Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of agriculture, the importance of livestock farm hands has never been more significant.

As the industry evolves, the demand for skilled individuals capable of maintaining, developing, and enhancing our livestock farming operations increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a livestock farm hand?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A farm owner outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the day-to-day operations of livestock farming,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable livestock farm hand job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or agricultural career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Livestock Farm Hand Duties and Responsibilities

Livestock Farm Hands are integral to agricultural operations, as they directly assist with the care and management of animals.

They perform a wide variety of duties to ensure the well-being of livestock and efficient running of the farm.

Livestock Farm Hands are often assigned the following duties and responsibilities:

• Assist in feeding livestock and ensure adequate water supply
• Monitor health conditions of livestock and administer basic veterinary treatments
• Assist in the birthing process of livestock
• Perform regular cleaning and maintenance of animal enclosures and farm equipment
• Ensure fences, pens and other farm structures are in good repair
• Assist in the management of pasture, including rotation of animals
• Manage inventory of farm supplies and order when necessary
• Assist in the transportation of animals to markets or other farms
• Maintain accurate records of livestock births, illnesses, and deaths
• Adhere to farm safety protocols and animal welfare standards

 

Livestock Farm Hand Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and hardworking Livestock Farm Hand to assist with the daily tasks and operations of our farm.

The Livestock Farm Hand will be responsible for feeding and caring for animals, maintaining farm buildings and fences, operating machinery and keeping records of animal health.

Our ideal candidate has previous experience in farming or animal care, is physically fit and able to work in all weather conditions, and has a deep respect and care for animals.

Ultimately, the role of the Livestock Farm Hand is to ensure the health, wellbeing and productivity of our farm animals.

 

Responsibilities

• Assisting with animal feeding and watering routines
• Maintaining the cleanliness and health of all livestock
• Assisting in the birthing process of livestock
• Repairing and maintaining farm buildings, fences and other equipment
• Operating and maintaining farm machinery
• Keeping detailed records of animal health and productivity
• Communicating any health issues or concerns to the farm manager
• Adhering to all farm safety regulations
• Performing any additional farm-related tasks as required

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a farm setting
• Knowledge of animal care and livestock handling
• Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery
• Physically fit and able to lift heavy items
• Ability to work in all weather conditions
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Good communication and record-keeping skills

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• On-job training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Livestock Farm Hand
• Work Environment: Outdoor farm setting. Work involves physical labor and exposure to all weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Manager or Livestock 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 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 Livestock Farm Hand Do?

Livestock Farm Hands are integral members of the farming operations involved in raising animals for various agricultural purposes such as meat, milk, wool, or even for work.

They are responsible for the day-to-day care of the animals, which includes feeding, watering, and ensuring the general health and wellbeing of the livestock.

Livestock Farm Hands might also assist in the birth of new animals, administer medications or vaccinations, and perform minor veterinary procedures under the supervision of a veterinarian.

They often handle duties related to maintaining the cleanliness of the animal’s living space, such as mucking out stalls or pens, and maintaining fences and other farm structures.

Livestock Farm Hands may also assist in the milking of dairy animals, shearing of sheep, or other processes involved in the production of animal products.

In addition, they play a significant role in monitoring the behavior and conditions of the animals, reporting any unusual activities or signs of disease to the farm manager or veterinarian.

Depending on the size of the farm, Livestock Farm Hands might also be involved in the transportation of animals, the maintenance of farm machinery, and other general farming duties.

They work closely with the farm manager to ensure the smooth operation of the farm and the welfare of the animals.

 

Livestock Farm Hand Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Livestock Farm Hand should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with the job requirements:

• Understanding of animal behavior to ensure the proper handling, feeding, and care of livestock.
• Physical stamina and strength to perform labor-intensive tasks such as lifting heavy feed bags, mending fences, and handling large animals.
• Knowledge of farm machinery and equipment operations to carry out daily tasks like feeding, watering, and maintaining the livestock.
• Ability to work under various weather conditions as farming tasks often need to be completed regardless of the weather.
• Attention to detail to notice any signs of illness or distress among the livestock, and the ability to take necessary actions accordingly.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly address any issues that may arise with livestock or equipment.
• Good communication skills to work effectively within a team and to maintain good relations with suppliers, veterinarians, and other related professionals.
• Knowledge of basic veterinary care to provide immediate attention to the livestock when required.

 

Livestock Farm Hand Experience Requirements

Livestock Farm Hands often gain their initial experience through roles on family farms or through participation in programs such as Future Farmers of America or 4-H.

This experience can equip them with the basic knowledge of animal care, machinery operation, and farm management.

Entry-level farm hands may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through seasonal work or internships on farms or ranches.

During this time, they acquire practical experience in tasks such as feeding livestock, maintaining farm equipment, and assisting with animal births.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are typically skilled in more complex farm tasks, such as operating heavy machinery, administering vaccinations, and managing breeding programs.

They may also have some experience with record keeping and regulatory compliance.

Those with over 5 years of experience often have extensive knowledge of livestock health and nutrition, farm safety procedures, and herd management.

They may have also taken on leadership roles, supervising junior staff members and coordinating farm operations.

Some may be ready for farm management or livestock supervisor positions.

 

Livestock Farm Hand Education and Training Requirements

Livestock Farm Hands typically require a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.

Vocational training or a certificate in agriculture, animal science, or a related field can be advantageous.

In lieu of formal education, substantial experience working with animals on a farm can also be considered.

Training for this role is largely hands-on and can be obtained through work experience, internships, or apprenticeships on farms.

This training provides practical knowledge in animal husbandry, feeding, vaccination, and the safe use of farm equipment and machinery.

Livestock Farm Hands should also have a basic understanding of animal health and welfare, and be knowledgeable about safety protocols and procedures on the farm.

Although not mandatory, gaining a certificate or short courses in areas such as farm management, animal breeding, or agricultural machinery operation can be beneficial for career advancement.

It’s also important for Livestock Farm Hands to be physically fit and capable of performing strenuous tasks, as the role often involves heavy lifting and working in all weather conditions.

First aid certification is also beneficial, especially for farms located in remote areas, where medical aid may not be immediately accessible.

 

Livestock Farm Hand Salary Expectations

A Livestock Farm Hand can expect to earn an average wage of $12.40 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings may differ based on experience, location, and the farm’s size and type of livestock.

Yearly salary can range from $20,000 to $30,000 (USD), depending on these factors and the hours worked.

 

Livestock Farm Hand Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Livestock Farm Hand need?

A Livestock Farm Hand should be physically fit, capable of heavy lifting, and comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.

They should have a keen understanding of animal behavior and welfare and be trained in handling livestock.

Experience in operating farming machinery can also be beneficial.

 

Do Livestock Farm Hands need any specific qualifications?

While formal qualifications are not always required, many Livestock Farm Hands have a diploma or certificate in agriculture or a related field.

Practical experience, either through previous work or vocational training, is usually highly valued.

In some cases, a valid driver’s license may be necessary for operating farm machinery.

 

What should you look for in a Livestock Farm Hand resume?

In a Livestock Farm Hand’s resume, look for previous experience in farming or livestock handling.

Any specific skills, such as milking, shearing, or administering medication to animals, should also be listed.

Certifications in animal welfare or farming machinery operation can be beneficial.

References from previous employers can provide valuable insight into the candidate’s reliability and work ethic.

 

What qualities make a good Livestock Farm Hand?

A good Livestock Farm Hand is reliable, hardworking, and comfortable with the physical demands of the job.

They should also be caring and compassionate towards animals, observant to notice any changes in an animal’s health or behavior, and knowledgeable about basic veterinary care.

Good problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently are also essential qualities.

 

Is it difficult to hire Livestock Farm Hands?

Hiring Livestock Farm Hands can be challenging, particularly in more remote areas or during busy seasonal periods.

You may need to offer competitive wages, accommodation, or other benefits to attract quality candidates.

Additionally, keep in mind that this role often requires long hours and physical work, which may limit the pool of interested candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into what it truly entails to be a livestock farm hand.

And guess what?

It’s not just about tending to animals.

It’s about nurturing life, one feed at a time.

With our detailed livestock farm hand job description template and practical examples, you’re all geared up to take the next step.

But why end there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate resource to create meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every feed, every chore, is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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