Herdsperson Trainee/Laborer

Smithfield Foods • Horizon Farrowing 47103 Yuma CO, CO

3d

About The Position

The Herdsperson assists Herd Technicians with routine animal care and general farm tasks to support animal welfare. Duties include farm sanitation, animal removal and movement, and potentially operating farm equipment as directed. The role may include training toward an advanced Herd Technician designation and provides care for animals at the assigned work site, particularly their health, growth, and breeding.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to perform hard physical labor.
• Strong commitment to teamwork.
• Willingness to shower daily upon entering and leaving the facility.
• Ability to follow instructions and deal with standardized situations.
• Ability to work an average 48-hour work week, which may vary frequently.
• Availability for weekend, evening, and holiday work as needed.
• Must be on call for emergencies, including power outages or personnel shortages.
• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to be respectful, approachable, and team-oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
• Ability to work with and around a wide range of antibiotics, such as penicillin.
• Ability to tolerate blood, animal dander, manure, dust, odors, and frequently noisy conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Previous livestock handling experience.

Responsibilities

• Feed, water, and vaccinate animals and perform general animal husbandry tasks, including basic veterinary procedures.
• Adjust plans as directed by farm leadership.
• Assist with moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
• Sanitize and wash farm areas using high-pressure equipment.
• Process piglets, including injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, and ear notching.
• Maintain accurate production information and update department records.
• Treat sick animals with pharmaceuticals through injection, oral application, or other required methods.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures, Production Manuals, and appropriate training guides.
• Assist with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Help maintain barn and office cleanliness and perform laundry duties.
• Follow animal welfare policies and procedures, including providing appropriate conditions, feed and water, humane treatment, health care, and euthanasia in accordance with guidelines.
• Comply with environmental, safety, and biosecurity laws and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED