Livestock Herder Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of agriculture, the role of a livestock herder is paramount.

As farming evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, nurture, and protect our livestock resources grows stronger.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of livestock herding,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive livestock herder job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Livestock Herder Duties and Responsibilities

Livestock Herders are primarily responsible for the overall care and management of livestock.

They use their knowledge of animal behavior and husbandry techniques to ensure the health, safety, and productivity of their animals.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Monitor animals for signs of illness or injury, and treat minor injuries or illnesses
• Provide animals with food and water, ensuring their nutritional needs are met
• Maintain a clean environment for animals by cleaning enclosures, pens, or pastures
• Manage breeding activities to ensure successful reproduction
• Move livestock to different grazing areas as necessary to ensure adequate feed resources
• Maintain records of animals’ health, diet, and milk or meat production
• Shear wool from sheep, and collect eggs or other products
• Train animals to accept riders or to perform in a specific manner
• Protect herds from predators or harsh weather
• Assist in the birth of livestock
• Monitor and manage the pasture environment to maintain optimal grazing conditions
• May also involve selling livestock or livestock products

 

Livestock Herder Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Livestock Herder to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall care and maintenance of our farm animals.

This includes feeding, grooming, and ensuring the health and well-being of the livestock, as well as performing daily checks and monitoring their behaviors.

Our ideal candidate is someone who has previous experience in a similar role, has a deep understanding of animal behavior, and is capable of performing manual labor under various weather conditions.

 

Responsibilities

• Feeding, watering, and caring for livestock
• Monitoring and reporting on the health and condition of the livestock
• Performing routine checks and maintaining cleanliness of the living areas
• Assisting with birthing, tagging, and branding animals
• Maintaining records of livestock, their health, and productivity
• Ensuring the security of the livestock and their environment
• Identifying and managing livestock diseases
• Following animal welfare laws and regulations
• Performing manual labor under various weather conditions

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a livestock herder or similar role
• Knowledge of animal behavior, diseases, and best care practices
• Physical stamina and the ability to handle heavy equipment and machinery
• Ability to work in various weather conditions
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license may be required
• Good communication and observation skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations and remain calm under pressure

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Housing may be provided
• Opportunities for advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Livestock Herder
• Work Environment: Outdoor, rural setting. Physical labor under varying weather conditions is expected.
• 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: Varies based on experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time, some weekend and holiday work may be required
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our farm. 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 Herder Do?

A Livestock Herder is typically employed in farming, ranching, or other agricultural contexts where large numbers of animals are raised.

Their primary role is to care for the herd which includes not only feeding the animals, but also ensuring their health, safety, and general well-being.

They often move the herd to different grazing areas to ensure a steady supply of food, which might involve planning and navigating routes, setting up camp for overnight stays, and safeguarding the herd from predators or dangers.

Livestock Herders are also responsible for medical duties such as administering vaccines, medicines, and performing minor veterinary procedures.

They may also assist with the birthing of new animals.

On a day-to-day basis, they may be tasked with identifying and marking animals, maintaining records of animals’ health and growth, and performing physical tasks such as shearing wool or milking.

In some situations, Livestock Herders may also be involved in training animals for specific roles or behaviors and preparing them for shows or sales.

 

Livestock Herder Qualifications and Skills

A capable livestock herder should possess a range of practical skills, physical abilities, and knowledge of animal husbandry, such as:

• Knowledge of animal behavior to understand and predict livestock needs and reactions.
• Physical stamina to manage and control livestock, often over rough terrain and in all weather conditions.
• Awareness of safety protocols to ensure both their own safety and that of the livestock.
• Ability to carry out basic veterinary tasks, such as administering medication or assisting with births.
• Problem-solving skills to deal with issues that arise, such as identifying sick animals or resolving disputes within the herd.
• Patience and calmness to handle animals that may be stressed or agitated.
• Ability to work independently for long periods of time, often in isolation.
• Knowledge of pasture management to ensure livestock have access to appropriate nutrition and resources.

 

Livestock Herder Experience Requirements

Individuals aspiring to be livestock herders usually gain initial experience through hands-on training in a farm or ranch environment.

This training may come through part-time work, internships or even volunteering.

Entry-level livestock herders may have 1-2 years of experience, often obtained through working on family farms or small local ranches.

They learn basic skills such as animal care, herd management, and basic veterinary practices.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are often well-versed in various aspects of livestock management, including breeding, grazing patterns, and disease control.

They may also have experience with different types of livestock and have worked in diverse environmental conditions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically ready for more advanced roles, such as livestock management or farm supervisory positions.

They may have significant experience in managing large herds, dealing with complex animal health issues, and implementing livestock growth strategies.

They may also have experience in administrative tasks like record keeping, livestock sales, and regulatory compliance.

 

Livestock Herder Education and Training Requirements

Livestock herders typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.

While formal education beyond high school is not typically required, some may pursue agricultural degrees or certificates in animal science or a related field.

Experience is often more important in this role than formal education, and many livestock herders acquire their skills through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.

In these settings, they learn important aspects of animal health, diet, and behavior, as well as how to handle and move animals safely.

Some livestock herders may also choose to take part in vocational training programs offered by agricultural colleges or cooperative extension services, which can provide a deeper understanding of livestock management, including feeding, breeding, and disease control.

Furthermore, various certifications are available for different types of livestock (such as cattle, sheep, or goats), which can demonstrate specialized knowledge and skills.

Increasingly, livestock herders are expected to understand and use technology such as GPS and software for record keeping and herd management.

Therefore, computer skills and familiarity with these technologies can be advantageous.

Finally, physical fitness and the ability to work in various weather conditions are essential for this job role.

 

Livestock Herder Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Livestock Herder is $25,440 (USD) per year.

However, the earnings can fluctuate based on experience, location, the size of the herd they are managing, and the specific company or farm they work for.

 

Livestock Herder Job Description FAQs

What are the necessary skills for a Livestock Herder?

Livestock Herders should possess a good understanding of animal behavior and the ability to handle animals safely.

They should be physically fit as the job may involve lifting heavy equipment and long hours of standing and walking.

Furthermore, they need to have basic veterinary skills to administer first aid and diagnose common diseases in animals.

 

Does a Livestock Herder need formal education or training?

Formal education is not mandatory to become a Livestock Herder.

However, having a high school diploma or equivalent may be beneficial.

Practical experience in handling animals is often more important.

This could be gained through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.

 

What should you look for in a Livestock Herder resume?

A good resume for a Livestock Herder should highlight any previous experience with animal care, particularly large animals.

Knowledge of livestock diseases, basic animal first aid, and experience with outdoor work are also valuable.

It’s also crucial to look for evidence of physical fitness and the ability to work independently.

 

What qualities make a good Livestock Herder?

A good Livestock Herder is patient, as animals do not always behave as expected and herding them can take time.

They should be observant and alert, able to notice if an animal is unwell or acting strangely.

A good Livestock Herder is also physically fit, able to handle the physical demands of the job, and has a passion for animals.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Livestock Herder?

Hiring a Livestock Herder can be challenging due to the physical demands and specialized knowledge required for the job.

It also requires someone who is willing to work in all weather conditions and often for long hours.

As such, finding a candidate with the right combination of physical fitness, experience, and love for animals can be a difficult task.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a livestock herder.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about tending animals.

It’s about shaping the future of agriculture, one herd at a time.

With our comprehensive livestock herder job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step up.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards precisely-crafted job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every herd you tend to is a part of the broader agricultural landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Livestock Herder (Complete Guide)

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