Livestock Production Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global food production, the role of Livestock Production Managers is more pivotal than ever.

As agricultural practices evolve, the need for proficient professionals who can manage, optimize, and protect our livestock farming systems becomes more pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Livestock Production Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager constructing the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or just curious about the intricacies of livestock production management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Livestock Production Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get right to it.

Livestock Production Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Livestock Production Managers oversee the daily operations of farms that raise animals for milk, meat, wool, and other products.

They take care of the livestock, manage farm workers, plan strategies for maximum yield, and ensure adherence to safety standards and government regulations.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Oversee the breeding and rearing of livestock
• Develop plans for feeding and health care of the livestock
• Manage and monitor the growth and production records of the livestock
• Implement strategies for disease prevention and control
• Ensure the welfare and safety of all livestock
• Oversee maintenance and repair of farm facilities, equipments, and vehicles
• Manage farm workers and assign duties
• Ensure compliance with government regulations and health and safety standards
• Plan and execute marketing strategies for livestock and livestock products
• Monitor market trends and make decisions about livestock sales
• Develop budgets and manage farm finances
• Inspect quality of livestock products before they are sold to consumers

 

Livestock Production Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Livestock Production Manager to oversee all aspects of our animal production and care.

This includes planning and coordinating the production and marketing of livestock, and ensuring compliance with government regulations and health standards.

The Livestock Production Manager will be responsible for managing staff, maintaining livestock health, and coordinating the breeding process.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of animal physiology, an ability to identify livestock diseases, and is comfortable with making decisions that affect our farm production.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of livestock production
• Plan and manage the breeding process of livestock
• Ensure proper care, health and feeding of all livestock
• Manage and train livestock staff
• Ensure all operations adhere to local, state, and federal regulations
• Monitor and maintain quality control measures
• Develop and manage budgets
• Oversee the marketing and sale of farm products
• Monitor and respond to environmental conditions and changes
• Ensure safety procedures are followed

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in livestock management or related field
• Strong understanding of animal physiology and livestock diseases
• Ability to identify, diagnose, and treat livestock health issues
• Experience with farm equipment and machinery
• Strong decision-making skills and a hands-on management approach
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• BSc degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or a related field preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Livestock Production Manager
• Work Environment: This role requires working outdoors in various weather conditions. Physical stamina and strength are necessary, as it involves handling livestock and operating farm machinery.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 Production Manager Do?

Livestock Production Managers typically work for agricultural operations and farms where animals are raised for meat, dairy, and other products.

They are responsible for the overall management of the farm’s livestock which includes breeding, feeding, and health care.

They also oversee the selection and maintenance of livestock, ensuring that they are of high quality and healthy.

Their job is to design and implement strategies to increase productivity and profitability of livestock operations.

They need to manage the production process, ensuring that it is efficient and meets industry standards.

These professionals also have to comply with regulations and standards related to animal welfare and biosecurity.

They may also be involved in business and financial decisions for the farm, including budgeting and cost analysis.

They work closely with veterinarians to prevent diseases and ensure the health of the livestock.

They also manage farm workers who look after the animals and tend to their needs.

In addition, Livestock Production Managers often play a key role in marketing the farm’s products, liaising with suppliers and customers, and attending trade shows and industry events.

Their role is vital to ensure the well-being of the farm’s livestock, the quality of the products produced, and the profitability of the farm.

 

Livestock Production Manager Qualifications and Skills

A successful Livestock Production Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Sound knowledge of animal science, breeding, and livestock management to guide strategic decisions for animal health, welfare, and productivity.
• Strong organizational skills to coordinate daily operations, including feeding, medical care, and overall maintenance of livestock.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to address various challenges such as disease outbreaks, animal behavior issues, and environmental concerns.
• Good interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with farm staff, veterinarians, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Physical stamina and resilience to work in a variety of weather conditions and handle physically demanding tasks.
• Experience in budgeting and financial planning to manage the farm’s finances effectively, including operational costs, payroll, and investments.
• Understanding of safety and compliance regulations to ensure all practices meet local, state, and federal guidelines.
• Leadership and team management skills to direct, supervise, and motivate farm staff to maintain high productivity levels.
• Technical skills to use modern farming equipment and software applications for livestock management.

 

Livestock Production Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Livestock Production Manager role typically need 2 to 3 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or full-time roles in agriculture or animal husbandry.

Such experience may involve duties like animal care, herding, feeding, or related administrative tasks.

Candidates who have been in the field for 3 to 5 years generally have a deeper understanding of livestock management processes.

They are expected to have hands-on experience in coordinating livestock breeding, disease control, and pasture management.

They may also have experience with tasks such as developing and implementing livestock production plans, monitoring animal health and welfare, and managing resources.

For those with more than 5 years of experience in the field, they usually possess a significant amount of knowledge and experience in livestock production management.

Such candidates often have experience managing teams, overseeing large-scale livestock operations, and developing and implementing strategic plans to increase productivity and profitability.

They might also have experience in liaising with veterinarians, nutritionists, and other professionals to ensure the optimal health and production of their livestock.

A managerial or directorial role in livestock production would be suitable for such candidates.

Furthermore, regardless of the years of experience, a strong understanding of animal physiology, nutrition, and breed characteristics is essential for all Livestock Production Managers.

Practical experience in working with different types of livestock is highly valued in this field.

 

Livestock Production Manager Education and Training Requirements

Livestock Production Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in animal science, livestock management, or a related agricultural field.

The curriculum usually covers subjects such as animal physiology and nutrition, livestock breeding and production, business and financial management, and agricultural marketing.

In addition to formal education, practical experience plays a crucial role in this field.

Many managers gain experience by working on a family farm or in internships during their studies.

A master’s degree in animal science or agricultural management, while not a requirement, can provide candidates with an edge for higher-level positions and help to develop a deeper understanding of the field.

Professional certifications such as the Certified Professional Animal Scientist (CPAS) designation offered by the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists are advantageous.

This certification requires a combination of education and experience, and demonstrates a candidate’s commitment to maintaining professional competence in the industry.

Furthermore, due to the evolving nature of the agricultural industry, ongoing education in the form of seminars, workshops, and additional coursework can help Livestock Production Managers stay updated on the latest developments in livestock management techniques and technologies.

 

Livestock Production Manager Salary Expectations

A Livestock Production Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $63,960 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience in the field, location, and the size of the livestock operation.

 

Livestock Production Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Livestock Production Manager need?

Livestock Production Managers require deep knowledge and understanding of animal husbandry and livestock management.

They should possess strong leadership and management skills to effectively oversee farm operations and staff.

They also require problem-solving skills to handle situations like disease outbreaks among livestock.

In addition, communication and organizational skills are crucial.

 

Do Livestock Production Managers need a degree?

While it’s possible to work as a Livestock Production Manager with experience and relevant certifications, a bachelor’s degree in animal science, agriculture, or a related field is often preferred by employers.

The degree programs provide comprehensive knowledge of livestock production, farm management, animal health and nutrition, which is vital in this role.

 

What should you look for in a Livestock Production Manager resume?

An ideal Livestock Production Manager resume should demonstrate a strong background in animal husbandry and farm management.

Look for experience in managing livestock health and production, overseeing staff, and maintaining records.

Certifications in animal care or farm management would be an added advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Livestock Production Manager?

A good Livestock Production Manager should be deeply passionate about animal welfare and have a good understanding of animal behavior and needs.

They should have excellent managerial and decision-making skills to run farm operations smoothly.

Being physically fit to handle the demands of the job and having a problem-solving mindset to address any farm issues are also key qualities.

 

What are the challenges in hiring a Livestock Production Manager?

Finding a Livestock Production Manager who has the right balance of technical skills (in animal care and farm management) and soft skills (like leadership and communication) can be challenging.

Also, the person should be willing to work in rural settings and adapt to the physically demanding nature of the job.

This makes the hiring process for this role quite challenging.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the true essence of being a Livestock Production Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about overseeing animals.

It’s about shaping the future of animal agriculture, one livestock management decision at a time.

With our indispensable Livestock Production Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step up.

But why limit yourself?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next tool for crafting pinpoint-accurate listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Keep this in mind:

Every livestock management decision contributes to the greater ecosystem.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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