Livestock Assistant – Heifer USA

About the role

Heifer U.S.A is seeking a Livestock Assistant to support daily ranch operations. This role involves caring for animals, maintaining facilities, and assisting with general ranch operations.

Responsibilities & Deliverables

• Complete assigned labor such as livestock chores (feeding, watering, moving livestock, welfare checks, setting up fencing for paddock rotations), chicken and turkey catching, tractor work, and general farm maintenance.
• Provide hands-on support in the care and management of a multi-species livestock operation, including cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens, and turkeys.
• Aid in monitoring animal health and promptly reporting any concerns, injuries, or abnormal behavior.
• Adhere to animal welfare and third-party verification standards, including low-stress animal handling, rotational grazing, spacing requirements, and comfort in all weather conditions.
• Support pasture-based systems through fence setup, water system management, and rotational grazing execution.
• Follow all safety protocols and contribute to a safe working environment for both people and animals.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of workspaces, equipment, and livestock areas.
• Participate in workshops and training opportunities to build skills and knowledge in ranch operations.
• Must show up on time and complete tasks with minimal supervision following training period.
• Safely operate tools and equipment on Heifer Ranch.
• Commit to reliability for scheduled shifts, arriving prepared & on time.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall ranch operations.

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED with 2-3 years of work experience.
• Willing to work weekends, holidays, and early morning shifts as needed.
• Physically able to lift 50 lbs. for extended periods of time.
• Willing to work in varying weather conditions throughout the seasons.
• Able to provide your own transportation to and from work.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Reside within close proximity to Heifer Ranch or willing to stay on the Ranch when duties require it.
• Interest in sustainable agriculture, food systems, and/or livestock.

Preferred Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in animal science, environmental studies, agriculture, or related fields.
• Previous experience with livestock or agricultural/farm work preferred.
• Knowledge of farming, agriculture, or related fields.
• Spanish language skills preferred.

Essential Job Functions And Physical Demands

• Must be physically able to complete a wide variety of manual labor.
• Ability to lift ~50 lbs. or more consistently.
• Use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Standing and walking outdoors for long periods of time.
• Excellent listening skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work standing for long periods of time.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Flexibility working early shifts a few times per month.
• Must be willing to use machinery safely, such as tractors.
• Ability to complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Must be willing to learn about ranch safety procedures.
• Ability to take directions and execute tasks as directed.
• Must be willing to work outside in various weather conditions.

Salary Information

The expected hourly rate for this role is $20-22 per hour. Placement within the range will be based on the experience and competency level of the candidate.

What We Offer

• Health and wellness benefits including Flexible Spending Account and/or Health Saving Account
• Employee assistance program
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave after six months of employment to bond with newborn, adopted and foster children
• 403(b) retirement plan (match 1% employee to 2% employer up to a maximum of 4% match +3% employer discretionary contribution regardless of employee contribution)
• 22 vacation days in addition to 12 statutory and discretionary holidays, and 10 sick days per year
• Employer-paid life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D)
• Professional development and annual merit increase opportunities
• Optional critical illness insurance, legal assistance plan and pet protection
• And more!