Livestock Farmer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of agriculture, the focus on livestock farmers has never been more prominent.

As the world population grows, so does the demand for the skilled individuals who can manage, nurture, and optimize our livestock resources.

But what’s truly expected from a livestock farmer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of livestock farming,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable livestock farmer job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Livestock Farmer Duties and Responsibilities

Livestock Farmers take care of various types of animals that are used primarily for food or product production.

They are responsible for the overall well-being of their animals and make sure they are properly fed, cared for, and healthy.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Breeding and raising livestock such as cattle, goats, sheep, pigs or poultry
• Feeding livestock and ensuring they have access to water
• Monitoring the health of the livestock, treating minor injuries or sickness, and arranging for veterinary care when needed
• Maintaining records of livestock production, health and breeding
• Ensuring livestock facilities are clean and hygienic
• Supervising birthing processes and nurturing the young
• Implementing breeding programs to optimize livestock productivity
• Marketing and selling livestock or livestock products, such as milk, meat or wool
• Maintaining and operating farm machinery used in the care and feeding of livestock
• Ensuring adherence to government regulations concerning farm operations

 

Livestock Farmer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Livestock Farmer to manage our farm operations.

Your duties will include raising and breeding livestock, feeding and watering animals, and maintaining their living spaces.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of animal husbandry and livestock management and is committed to humane and sustainable farming practices.

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

 

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the farm.
• Raise, breed, and care for livestock.
• Ensure animals are fed and watered regularly.
• Maintain clean and safe animal living spaces.
• Monitor animal health and treat minor injuries or illnesses.
• Coordinate veterinary visits for vaccinations and serious health concerns.
• Assist with animal births.
• Track and maintain inventory of feed and supplies.
• Adhere to animal welfare laws and regulations.
• Handle the marketing and sale of livestock products.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Livestock Farmer or similar role.
• Deep knowledge of animal husbandry and livestock management.
• Physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy loads.
• Ability to handle and care for animals humanely.
• Knowledge of veterinary care and animal health.
• Understanding of sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent. A degree in animal science, agriculture, or related field is a plus.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Livestock Farmer
• Work Environment: Farm setting. This position requires outdoor work in all weather conditions and may include some weekend and holiday work.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies depending on experience and location
• 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 Farmer Do?

Livestock Farmers, also known as ranchers, are professionals who manage the daily operations of a livestock farm.

They are typically self-employed and work in rural environments.

They raise animals such as cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, and poultry, for various purposes including the production of meat, milk, eggs, and wool.

Livestock farmers are responsible for the feeding, health, and general welfare of their animals.

They must ensure their livestock are provided with the necessary nutrients and monitor them for signs of illness or disease, administering treatment or seeking veterinary care as needed.

A significant part of their job is maintaining the facilities where the livestock are housed.

This includes ensuring clean and sanitary conditions, making repairs, and implementing security measures to protect the animals from predators and harsh weather conditions.

Livestock farmers also manage the breeding of their animals, either for the continuation of their livestock or for sale.

This requires detailed record keeping of each animal’s lineage, health, and productivity.

Furthermore, they may be involved in the business side of farming such as marketing their products, managing finances, and complying with agricultural regulations and animal welfare standards.

They also typically engage with other farmers, suppliers, and buyers in their industry.

In some cases, livestock farmers may diversify their operations by growing crops or engaging in other agricultural activities.

This can help to supplement their income and provide additional feed for their animals.

 

Livestock Farmer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient livestock farmer should possess skills and qualifications that align with the demands of the job, such as:

• A strong understanding of animal husbandry including knowledge of animal nutrition, breeding, and disease prevention and management.
• Physical stamina and strength to manage, feed, and care for a large number of animals, often in harsh weather conditions.
• Effective business and marketing skills to sell farm products for profit.
• Technical skills to operate and maintain farming machinery and equipment.
• Attention to detail to monitor the health and wellbeing of livestock, and to ensure regulatory compliance for livestock management.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and mitigate issues related to animal health and farm operations.
• Basic veterinary skills for administering vaccinations, medications, and minor surgical procedures.
• Time management skills to effectively manage daily tasks, seasonal work, and unexpected issues that may arise.

 

Livestock Farmer Experience Requirements

For a Livestock Farmer, experience typically begins with hands-on work on a family or local farm, often starting in their teenage years.

This initial experience provides a strong foundation in animal care, farm management, and machinery operation.

Entry-level Livestock Farmer candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience in farming or related fields, such as working as a farmhand or in a nursery.

They have basic understanding of animal husbandry, farm safety, and the day-to-day operations of a farm.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have deeper knowledge and skills in animal nutrition, breeding, and disease prevention.

They also have a good understanding of how to maintain farm equipment, and may have managed small teams or coordinated farm tasks.

For those with more than 5 years of experience, they often have a comprehensive understanding of the business aspects of farming, including sales, budgeting, and regulatory compliance.

They may also have experience managing larger teams, and coordinating with vets, suppliers, and buyers.

Such individuals are generally well prepared for leadership or managerial positions within the farming industry.

 

Livestock Farmer Education and Training Requirements

Livestock Farmers generally require a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in animal science, agriculture, or a related field can be beneficial for those seeking to enter this profession.

They need extensive knowledge about different types of livestock, their dietary needs, breeding patterns, and disease identification and prevention.

This knowledge can be gained from on-the-job training, vocational programs, or through apprenticeships under experienced farmers.

Experience with farm equipment operation and maintenance is also a valuable skill for livestock farmers.

This includes machinery used for feeding, milking, or transporting animals, as well as tractors and other farming equipment.

Certifications from agricultural or livestock associations, while not mandatory, can demonstrate a livestock farmer’s commitment to their profession and ongoing education.

Some states also require livestock farmers to obtain a license, particularly if they administer vaccinations or other medical treatments to their animals.

Continuing education in the form of workshops, seminars, or courses on animal health, nutrition, and welfare can be beneficial for staying up-to-date with the latest advances in the field.

 

Livestock Farmer Salary Expectations

A Livestock Farmer can expect to earn an average salary of $68,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of the farm, the type of livestock, location, and the farmer’s level of experience and knowledge in the field.

 

Livestock Farmer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a livestock farmer need?

Livestock farmers need a combination of physical and technical skills, as well as knowledge about animal health and welfare.

They should be comfortable working with animals and performing physical tasks, such as herding and feeding.

In addition, a good livestock farmer should have a basic understanding of veterinary care, nutrition, and breeding practices.

Problem-solving skills, communication, and time-management are also important.

 

Do livestock farmers need a degree?

While it is not strictly necessary for a livestock farmer to have a degree, many find that having an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in animal science, agriculture, or a related field can be beneficial.

This education can provide a solid foundation of knowledge about animal health, nutrition, and breeding, which can be directly applied to the care and management of livestock.

 

What should you look for in a livestock farmer resume?

Experience is key when it comes to a livestock farmer’s resume.

Look for direct experience with the type of livestock your farm raises, as well as any relevant certifications or degrees.

Consider their understanding of animal nutrition, health, and breeding, and any experience they have with machinery and equipment.

Any additional skills such as record-keeping, time-management, or teamwork could also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good livestock farmer?

A good livestock farmer has a strong work ethic and a dedication to animal welfare.

They should be capable of physical labor, able to work in all weather conditions, and comfortable with the unpredictability that can come with working with animals.

Patience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently are also important traits.

 

What are the daily duties of a livestock farmer?

A livestock farmer’s daily duties can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the farm, but generally include feeding and watering animals, cleaning out their pens or fields, checking for any signs of disease or injury, and possibly milking or shearing.

They may also need to maintain fences and other farm structures, operate machinery, or manage other farm workers.

 

Is it difficult to hire livestock farmers?

Hiring livestock farmers can be challenging due to the physical demands and skill set required for the job.

However, with a clear job description and by offering competitive salaries and benefits, it is possible to attract dedicated and hard-working candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the nitty-gritty of what it really means to be a livestock farmer.

And you know what?

It’s not just about feeding and breeding animals.

It’s about cultivating a sustainable future, one livestock at a time.

With our handy livestock farmer job description template and realistic examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precisely-crafted job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every livestock you nurture is a part of the greater agricultural landscape.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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