Herdsperson 4 - BS 7082

Smithfield Foods • Laurel Hill, NC

5d

About The Position

The Herdsperson assists Herd Technicians with routine animal care and general farm tasks to support animal welfare, including sanitation, animal removal, and animal movement. The role provides care for animals at the designated work site, particularly their health, growth, and breeding. The employee may operate farm equipment as directed and may receive training for an advanced Herd Technician designation.

Requirements

• Ability to perform essential duties satisfactorily.
• Ability to do 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.
• 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, including 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; perform general animal husbandry tasks and 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 using pharmaceuticals administered by injection, orally, or by other required methods.
• Follow applicable standard operating procedures, production manuals, and training guides.
• Assist with facility and equipment maintenance.
• Help maintain cleanliness in the barn and office and perform laundry duties.
• Follow company animal welfare policies and procedures, including providing appropriate environments, water, feed, humane treatment, health care, and euthanasia practices.
• 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