Job description
BlueHeron Farms, a premier livestock operation near Ames, IA, is seeking a results-driven Livestock Farm Manager who can elevate day-to-day farm performance while upholding the highest standards of animal welfare and biosecurity. This role blends hands-on care with strategic oversight to ensure sustainable production and profitability.
As part of our leadership team, you will oversee cattle and swine operations, coordinate feeding programs, monitor health, manage staff, and implement best practices across facilities. The ideal candidate has a track record of optimizing productivity, maintaining safety compliance, and fostering a positive, collaborative farm culture.
Responsibility
- Oversee daily livestock operations across cattle and swine herds, ensuring welfare, safety, and productivity.
- Design and manage feeding programs, monitor nutrition, and oversee inventory and supplier relationships.
- Monitor animal health and welfare; coordinate with veterinarians; implement vaccination and treatment protocols.
- Recruit, train, and supervise farm workers; schedule tasks and monitor performance.
- Maintain accurate records using farm management software; track production metrics, feed usage, and veterinary care.
- Ensure compliance with biosecurity, animal welfare, labor, and environmental regulations; conduct regular risk assessments.
- Oversee facility maintenance, equipment, fencing, water systems, and capital improvement projects.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in agriculture, animal science, or related field, or equivalent experience.
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in livestock farming operations management.
- Strong knowledge of animal health, nutrition, biosecurity, welfare standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Proven leadership and team management skills; ability to motivate staff and drive accountability.
- Proficiency with farm management software, record-keeping, and basic budgeting.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration with veterinarians, nutritionists, and technicians.
- Physical ability to work outdoors, handle livestock, and be on-site during critical periods; valid driver's license.