Job description
Des Moines Valley Farms is seeking a dynamic Livestock Farm Manager to lead our cattle and sheep operations with a focus on welfare, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
Based in Des Moines, IA, this role blends hands-on livestock care with strategic leadership. The ideal candidate will oversee daily animal care, staff supervision, pasture management, biosecurity programs, nutrition plans, and compliance with animal welfare standards. We offer a modern facility, ongoing training, competitive compensation, and clear career progression.
Responsibility
- Lead daily farm operations for cattle and sheep, ensuring welfare, safety, and productivity standards.
- Develop and implement feeding, health, and reproduction plans in collaboration with veterinarians and nutritionists.
- Manage farm staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, performance reviews, and team development.
- Oversee prenatal and postnatal care, vaccination, weaning, and disease prevention programs.
- Monitor inventory, equipment, facilities, and biosecurity measures; optimize housing and pastures for performance.
- Maintain accurate records for health, breeding, production, and regulatory compliance; generate regular reports.
- Ensure adherence to animal welfare laws, environmental guidelines, and worker safety protocols.
- Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align product quality with market demand and profitability.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in animal science, agriculture, or a related field (or 5+ years of hands-on livestock management).
- 5+ years of livestock management experience, with cattle and sheep exposure preferred.
- Strong knowledge of animal nutrition, health protocols, vaccination, and biosecurity.
- Proven leadership and team management skills; ability to train and motivate a diverse crew.
- Experience with farm management software and recordkeeping; proficiency in Excel/Sheets.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and decision-making abilities.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including during critical calving/lambing periods.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to operate farm equipment safely.