Job description
Prairie Crest Farms is seeking a resultsâdriven Livestock Farm Manager to lead dayâtoâday operations on our Des Moines, IA multiâspecies farm. This role blends handsâon animal care with strategic operations, health and welfare oversight, and dataâdriven decision making to optimize production and profitability.
As the Farm Manager, you will guide a small team, implement best practices, and partner with veterinarians and nutritionists to maintain exceptional animal welfare and biosecurity standards.
We offer growth, a competitive compensation package, and the opportunity to influence sustainable farming in a thriving agricultural community.
Responsibility
- Oversee dayâtoâday care of multiâspecies livestock (cattle, sheep, and swine) with emphasis on welfare, nutrition, and health.
- Develop and supervise feeding regimens, vaccination schedules, and preventive health programs.
- Lead farm staff, contractors, and seasonal workers; schedule tasks and monitor performance.
- Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Monitor production efficiency, record keeping, and data analytics to optimize feed conversion and cost control.
- Coordinate breeding plans, calfâraising programs, and sales logistics in collaboration with buyers and processors.
- Oversee equipment maintenance, facility upkeep, barn cleanliness, biosecurity, and waste management.
Qualification
- Degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field preferred; significant handsâon livestock management experience will be considered.
- 3+ years of proven livestock management experience in a commercial setting.
- Strong knowledge of animal health, nutrition, welfare standards, biosecurity, and regulatory compliance.
- Proficiency with farm management software, recordâkeeping, and basic data analysis.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills; ability to manage a small team and collaborate with veterinarians and nutritionists.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, outdoors in varying weather; valid driverâs license.
- Physical ability to perform farm tasks and operate equipment safely; forklift or skidâsteer certification is a plus.