Farm Manager

The primary objective of the Sow Farm Unit Manager is to develop, manage, and maintain a highly efficient and successful sow unit operation. This position carries a significant level of responsibility and requires a deep commitment to excellence. The manager must possess the ability to effectively lead and inspire the farm production team to achieve and exceed established production goals while ensuring the well-being of livestock.

Key Abilities

• Reading and Writing Skills: Proficient in reading and interpreting technical manuals, safety protocols, and regulatory documents. Capable of writing clear and comprehensive reports.
• Computer Skills: Familiarity with farm management software and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.) for record-keeping, data analysis, and communication.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional focus on details to ensure all operations meet quality and health standards, including animal welfare and biosecurity protocols.
• Organizational Skills: Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities and ensure the farm functions smoothly on a daily basis.
• Responsibility and Commitment: Strong work ethic demonstrating a high level of personal accountability and dedication to the team's success.
• Math Skills: Intermediate math skills for calculating feed conversion ratios, breeding rates, and other necessary production metrics.
• Collaborative Attitude: Working effectively with others and fostering a positive team environment.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, ensuring understanding across diverse team members.

Physical Job Requirements

• Lifting: Frequent lifting of objects weighing between 5 lbs and 25 lbs, with occasional lifting of heavier items, up to 75 lbs, as necessary for equipment and supplies.
• Physical Endurance: Capability to exert significant physical effort, including resisting a 25 lb pressure hose for extended durations, as well as engaging in activities such as bending, stretching, walking, squatting, pulling, pushing, and lifting throughout the work week.
• Work Environment: Must adapt to a loud and dusty setting while interacting closely with both large (sows) and small animals (piglets), requiring vigilance and care.

Work Environment

• Conditions: The farm operates in a challenging environment marked by noise and dust, necessitating proper ventilation and hygiene practices.
• Animal Interaction: Responsibility for the care and management of both large and small livestock, ensuring their welfare and health at all times.

Responsibilities

• Farm Activities: Develop, delegate, and oversee farm work activities, ensuring all tasks align with production goals and practices.
• Policy Compliance: Monitor adherence to company policies and procedures, ensuring all staff are trained in biosecurity and safety protocols to mitigate risks.
• Cleanliness Standards: Maintain a clean and organized work environment, with a schedule for regular cleaning of farm entrances, break areas, and communal spaces to promote health and safety.
• Training and Development: Train, develop, and mentor the production team, enhancing their skills and knowledge to improve performance and productivity.
• Employee Management: Oversee new employee training and orientation processes, ensuring all staff understands their roles and responsibilities.
• Performance Documentation: Manage and document team performance through routine follow-ups and performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback.
• Biosecurity Protocols: Ensure farm staff, visitors, and contractors strictly adhere to internal and external biosecurity protocols at all times to safeguard animal health.
• Accurate Record Keeping: Ensure the production team maintains complete, accurate, and legible records, submitting production reports to relevant parties by established deadlines.
• Production Management: Responsible for meeting all production targets related to breeding and weaning age, utilizing metrics to assess productivity goals.
• Project Coordination: Oversee the completion of special projects on the farm, coordinating resources and team efforts to achieve desired outcomes.
• Herd Health Testing: Partner with the Sow Production Manager to schedule and oversee quarterly blood tests to monitor herd health and productivity.
• Animal Welfare: Ensure animals receive proper nutrition, welfare, and medical treatment regularly, collaborating with veterinary teams as needed.
• Safety Training: Conduct regular safety training, ensuring all farm staff and visitors are familiar with company safety procedures and protocols.
• Regular Meetings: Attend production and training meetings that may require occasional travel
• Inventory Management: Maintain accurate inventory records for medicines and farm supplies, ensuring availability when needed.
• Emergency Response: Respond to alarm calls after normal hours in the event of farm system malfunctions, demonstrating reliability and readiness to act.
• Time Card Management: Review and approve staff timecards by payroll deadlines to ensure accurate payment and compliance.

Other Responsibilities

• Attendance: Maintain regular and reliable attendance, ensuring consistent workflow and team support.
• Miscellaneous Duties: Perform other duties as assigned by the Sow Production Manager that contribute to the efficient operation of the farm.

Requirements

• A degree in agriculture is preferred; however, significant and proven work experience in the field may be accepted as an alternative.
• Must currently have authorization for U.S. employment