Herdsperson - BS 7644

Smithfield Foods•New Bern, NC

13d

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 operating farm equipment as directed. The role may provide training toward an advanced Herd Technician designation and includes responsibility for the care of animals at the designated work site, particularly their health, growth, and breeding.

Requirements

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 deal with standardized situations.
Ability to work an average 48-hour work week, which can 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

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Previous livestock handling experience is helpful.

Responsibilities

Feed, water, and vaccinate animals, 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 using injection, oral application, or other required methods.
Follow applicable Standard Operation Procedures, Production Manuals, and training guides.
Assist with facility and equipment maintenance.
Help maintain cleanliness in barns and offices and perform laundry duties.
Follow animal welfare policies and procedures, including meeting animals’ environmental, feed, and water needs; providing humane treatment; identifying and treating animals needing health care; and following euthanasia guidelines.
Comply with environmental, safety, and biosecurity laws and procedures.
Operate mowers, tractors, trucks, buses, and other farm equipment as directed.
Perform other duties as assigned.