Job description
Heartland Prairie Livestock is seeking a proactive Livestock Farm Manager to lead our growing operation near Des Moines, Iowa. In this role, you will oversee daily barn activities, supervise and develop staff, uphold animal welfare standards, manage feed budgets, coordinate health programs, and drive productivity across cattle and poultry operations. This is a hands-on leadership position ideal for someone committed to sustainable farming, biosecurity, and community agriculture.
We offer competitive compensation, opportunities for advancement, and a collaborative team environment in a modern rural setting.
Responsibility
- Oversee day-to-day livestock care across cattle and poultry, ensuring proper nutrition, hydration, health checks, and welfare standards.
- Lead, train, and schedule farm staff; oversee shift coverage and performance feedback.
- Implement and monitor biosecurity, vaccination, parasite control, and herd health programs in partnership with veterinarians.
- Manage feed procurement, inventory, budgeting, and feeding schedules to optimize efficiency and cost control.
- Maintain accurate health and production records; monitor performance metrics and implement improvement plans.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations, animal welfare standards, waste management, and farm safety policies.
- Coordinate breeding programs, calving/lambing seasons, and genetics improvement to boost productivity.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field preferred; extensive hands-on livestock management experience considered.
- 3+ years of progressively responsible experience in cattle and poultry farming or dairy/beef operations.
- Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, welfare, vaccination, and biosecurity protocols.
- Proven leadership and team-building skills; ability to train and supervise staff across shifts.
- Excellent record-keeping, budgeting, and facility management skills; proficiency with farm software and MS Office.
- Ability to operate farm equipment, repair basic facilities, and adhere to safety standards; valid driver’s license required.
- High willingness to work flexible hours, weekends, and during peak seasons.