Herdsperson Trainee Contract Princeton

Smithfield Foods • Princeton, MO

13d • Onsite

About The Position

The Herdsperson assists Herd Technicians with routine animal care and general farm tasks to support animal welfare, health, growth, and breeding at the designated work site. Duties include farm sanitation, animal removal and movement, and general animal husbandry. The employee may operate farm equipment as directed and may train for an advanced Herd Technician designation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to perform hard physical labor.
• Strong commitment to teamwork.
• Willingness to shower daily when entering and leaving the facility.
• Ability to follow instructions and handle standardized situations.
• Ability to work an average 48-hour work week, which can vary frequently.
• Ability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
• Must be on call for emergency situations, 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, including penicillin.
• Ability to tolerate blood, animal dander, manure, dust, odors, and frequently noisy conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Previous livestock handling experience.

Responsibilities

• Feed and water animals, administer vaccinations, and perform general animal husbandry tasks, including basic veterinary procedures.
• Adapt 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 by 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 suitable environments, adequate water and quality feed, humane treatment, appropriate health care, and euthanasia according to guidelines.
• Comply with environmental, safety, and biosecurity laws and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED