Herdsperson - Farm 33161

If you join Smithfield, you become part of a company that sustainably feeds people around the world, producing food responsibly with respect for people, animals, communities, and the planet. Opportunities span locations and functions, with a culture grounded in gratitude, communication, respect, and accountability, and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation.

About the role

The Herdsperson assists other Herd Technicians in routine animal care and general farm tasks to ensure the welfare and well-being of the animals. Tasks include farm sanitation, animal removal, and animal movement. You may operate mowers, tractors, trucks, buses, and other farm equipment as directed. This position may also serve as training for an advanced Herd Technician designation.

Hourly rate: $16.00

Responsibilities

• Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks including basic veterinary procedures.
• Maintains flexibility with a willingness to change plans according to the direction of farm leadership.
• Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitizes and washes multiple areas on the farm using high-pressure equipment.
• Processes piglets, which includes: injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, and ear notching.
• Maintains accurate production information and updates all department records as required.
• Treats sick animals with a variety of pharmaceuticals by injection, oral application, and/or other methods as required.
• Follows Standard Operating Procedures, Production Manuals, or Appropriate Training Guides as required.
• Assists with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Assists with maintaining barn, office cleanliness, and laundry duties.
• Follows the Company’s animal welfare policies and procedures, including:
  • Providing a physical environment that meets the animal’s needs.
  • Providing access to adequate water and high-quality feed.
  • Providing humane treatment of the animals.
  • Providing identification and appropriate treatment of animals in need of health care.
  • Following guidelines for euthanasia.
• Responsible for complying with all environmental, safety, and biosecurity laws and procedures.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous livestock handling experience helpful.
• Ability to perform hard physical labor.
• Strong commitment to teamwork.
• Willingness to shower daily in and out of the facility.
• Ability to follow instructions and deal with standardized situations.
• Must be able to work an average 48-hour work week, which can vary frequently.
• Weekend, evening, and holiday work required as needed.
• Must be on call for emergency situations, including but not limited to power outages or personnel shortages.
• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to be respectful, approachable, and team-oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
• Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
• Must be able to work with and around a wide range of antibiotics (e.g., penicillin).
• Must be able to tolerate blood, animal dander, manure, dust, odors, and frequently noisy conditions.