Herdsperson - Sow Farm Trainee

Smithfield Foods•Jackson, NC

22h•Onsite

About The Position

Smithfield is seeking a Herdsperson for their Sow Farm Trainee program. This role is an opportunity to join a company committed to sustainably feeding the world and operating with respect for people, animals, communities, and the planet. Smithfield offers a culture grounded in core values of gratitude, communication, respect, and accountability, with a strong emphasis on learning, collaboration, and innovation. This position provides challenging and rewarding career growth where employees can contribute and make a real impact.

Requirements

Ability to do hard physical labor.
Strong commitment to teamwork.
Willingness to shower daily in and out of facility.
Ability to follow instructions and deal with standardized situations.
Must be able to work an average 48-hour work week, which can vary frequently.
Weekend, evening, and holiday work required as needed.
Must be on call for emergency situations.
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.
Vision abilities include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus.
Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
Must be able to work with and around a wide range of antibiotics.
Must be able to tolerate blood, animal dander, manure, dust, odors, and frequently noisy conditions.

Nice To Haves

High School diploma or GED preferred.
Previous livestock handling helpful.

Responsibilities

Assists other Herd Technicians in routine animal care and general farm tasks to ensure the welfare/well-being of the animals.
Performs farm sanitation, animal removal, and animal movement.
Operates mowers, tractors, trucks, bus, and other farm equipment as directed.
Provides care for all animals, focusing on their health, growth, and breeding.
Feeds, waters, vaccinates, and performs general animal husbandry tasks including basic veterinary procedures.
Maintains flexibility and willingness to change plans according to farm leadership direction.
Assists in moving animals and maintaining efficient animal flows.
Sanitizes and washes multiple areas on the farm using high-pressure equipment.
Processes piglets, including injecting medications, castrating, docking tails, and ear notching.
Maintains accurate production information and updates all department records.
Treats sick animals with a variety of pharmaceuticals.
Follows Standard Operation Procedures, Production Manuals, or Appropriate Training Guides.
Assists with facility and equipment maintenance.
Assists with maintaining barn and office cleanliness, and laundry duties.
Follows the Company’s animal welfare policies and procedures.
Complies with all environmental, safety, and biosecurity laws and procedures.