Livestock Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving agricultural landscape, the role of a livestock manager is becoming increasingly significant.

As sustainability and animal welfare take center stage, the demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently oversee, nurture, and protect our livestock operations is rising.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a livestock manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of livestock management,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s get started.

Livestock Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Livestock Managers are responsible for the day-to-day running of farms that raise animals for meat, milk, or fiber production.

They oversee the breeding, feeding, and health of livestock, along with the management of farm workers and administrative tasks.

The duties and responsibilities of a Livestock Manager include:

• Overseeing and participating in livestock breeding and care
• Developing and implementing livestock management plans
• Monitoring animal health and seeking veterinary help when necessary
• Ensuring the maintenance of livestock housing and fencing
• Managing pasture and feed resources, including the purchasing of feed
• Training and supervising farm workers
• Managing farm records, including financial records, breeding records, veterinary treatment records, and regulatory paperwork
• Complying with all relevant animal welfare and environmental regulations
• Marketing and selling livestock and livestock products
• Undertaking routine maintenance and repair work on the farm

 

Livestock Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Livestock Manager to oversee our livestock farming operations.

The Livestock Manager’s responsibilities include feeding and caring for animals, health monitoring, maintaining facilities and equipment, and managing staff.

The candidate should have a deep understanding of animal husbandry and be able to implement sustainable, efficient livestock farming practices.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of the livestock farm including feeding, ensuring clean water is always available, and animal health.
• Monitor animal health and welfare, including liaising with vets.
• Maintain farm facilities and equipment, arranging for repairs as needed.
• Ensure all staff adhere to health and safety regulations.
• Oversee breeding programs and manage animal selection.
• Implement and improve operational processes to increase farm productivity.
• Manage farm workers and delegate tasks appropriately.
• Keep records of animals and their health.
• Ensure all farming practices are in compliance with government regulations.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in livestock management or similar role.
• Thorough knowledge of animal husbandry.
• Familiarity with modern farming techniques and equipment.
• Ability to manage and supervise a team.
• Strong physical stamina and ability to lift heavy loads.
• Good problem-solving abilities.
• Understanding of safety regulations in farming.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science or related field is preferable.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Job training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Livestock Manager
• Work Environment: This job requires working outdoors in all weather conditions, and physical labor is involved. The candidate will be working closely with animals.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or General Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Manager Do?

Livestock Managers are employed in the farming industry and are primarily responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of livestock farms.

They may work on cattle, sheep, pig, or poultry farms.

They are tasked with the overall health and productivity of the livestock, which involves feeding, medicating, and caring for the animals.

This may include deciding on the most nutritious and cost-effective feed, administering vaccinations, and providing general care such as bathing and shearing.

Livestock Managers must also monitor the breeding of animals to ensure a stable population and to raise the farm’s productivity.

They must keep thorough records of each animal’s health, age, and breeding history.

They are often responsible for managing farm workers, ensuring they are properly trained and carrying out their tasks efficiently.

They may also be involved in the hiring and training process of new staff.

Additionally, they may be involved in the business aspects of farming, such as marketing the farm’s products, budgeting and controlling costs, and ensuring compliance with government regulations.

Livestock Managers may also be required to maintain the farm’s equipment and facilities, and make sure that all operations are carried out in accordance with animal welfare regulations.

In the case of any disease outbreaks, they are responsible for coordinating with veterinarians and implementing disease control measures to prevent further spread.

 

Livestock Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Livestock Manager should possess the skills and qualifications that match with your job description, including:

• Knowledge and experience in animal husbandry to ensure the health and wellbeing of livestock.
• Strong organizational skills to manage livestock, monitor feedings, vaccinations, and overall care efficiently.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physical tasks associated with caring for livestock.
• Excellent observational skills to notice changes in livestock health or behavior that may indicate disease or injury.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues related to livestock health, behavior or facilities.
• Interpersonal skills for effective communication with farm staff, veterinarians, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to manage resources, including feed and medical supplies, and implement cost-saving measures.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards and compliance requirements in relation to livestock management.

 

Livestock Manager Experience Requirements

Livestock Manager roles often require a minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience in farming or ranching, with a particular focus on livestock management.

This experience can be obtained through roles such as Ranch Hand, Farm Supervisor, or Livestock Specialist.

Candidates for Livestock Manager positions will ideally have experience in handling and caring for a variety of animals, understanding their nutritional needs, breeding processes and health issues.

Furthermore, they are usually expected to have hands-on experience with farm machinery and equipment.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in livestock management may have gained deeper knowledge in the areas of animal husbandry, breeding, nutrition, and disease control.

They may also have experience managing staff and dealing with administrative tasks such as record keeping, budgeting, and regulatory compliance.

Livestock Managers with over 10 years of experience are often considered for senior roles, and may have additional skills in strategic planning, team leadership, and advanced livestock management techniques.

They are typically ready for the responsibilities that come with overseeing large farming operations and teams.

 

Livestock Manager Education and Training Requirements

Livestock Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in animal science, agriculture, or a related field.

These programs provide instruction in animal biology, agriculture business management, and the use of technology in farming.

In addition to formal education, practical experience is highly valued in this profession.

Hands-on experience can be gained through internships, cooperative agriculture programs, or work on a family farm or ranch.

Some Livestock Managers may opt to earn a master’s degree in agriculture or business administration for advancement in the field.

Since livestock management involves the use of various technologies for feeding, breeding, and disease control, familiarity with these tools is necessary.

In some cases, Livestock Managers may require certification or licensure, particularly if they are involved in organic livestock production or in administering veterinary medicines.

Continuing education in the form of workshops and seminars is also beneficial for keeping up with advances in animal husbandry, sustainable farming practices, and emerging technologies in the field.

Overall, a combination of formal education, practical experience, and continuous learning are essential for success in the role of a Livestock Manager.

 

Livestock Manager Salary Expectations

A Livestock Manager can expect an average salary of $69,020 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary based on the size of the farm or ranch, location, years of experience, and the species of livestock being managed.

 

Livestock Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a livestock manager need?

Livestock Managers should possess strong communication and leadership skills to coordinate with workers and manage livestock operations.

They should have good knowledge of animal husbandry, veterinary sciences, and livestock management practices.

Analytical and problem-solving abilities are also crucial to assess the health of livestock and implement appropriate solutions.

 

Do livestock managers need a degree?

While it is not a strict requirement, a degree in Animal Science, Agriculture or a related field can be beneficial for a Livestock Manager.

Some positions require prior experience in livestock management or farming operations.

Practical experience and familiarity with animals, however, is considered most valuable.

 

What should you look for in a livestock manager resume?

When reviewing a Livestock Manager’s resume, look for a combination of education and practical experience in livestock farming or a related field.

Consider their experience with animal health and nutrition, breeding, herd management, and any relevant certifications or training.

Knowledge in the operation of farm machinery and equipment, as well as any experience managing staff or handling administrative duties, can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good livestock manager?

A good Livestock Manager is passionate about the welfare of animals and the success of the farming operation.

They are organized and detail-oriented, able to keep accurate records and manage the various aspects of livestock production.

They should be physically fit and willing to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

A good Livestock Manager also stays updated with new farming technologies and livestock health advancements.

 

Is it challenging to find a good livestock manager?

Finding a good Livestock Manager can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

It’s important to find someone who has not only the technical knowledge and experience, but also the passion and commitment to the well-being of the livestock and the success of the farm operation.

This combination can make the search more difficult but also more rewarding when you find the right candidate.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

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

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about managing animals.

It’s about shaping the future of farming and livestock production, one animal at a time.

With our comprehensive livestock manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to embark on this journey.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further into your career possibilities with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every animal in your care is a piece of a larger puzzle.

Let’s shape the future of farming. Together.

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