Herdsperson - Farm 55761

Smithfield Foods • Maxton, NC

1d • Onsite

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 employee may be training for an advanced Herd Technician designation. The role also provides care for 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 in and out of 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 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

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous livestock handling helpful.

Responsibilities

• Feed, water, vaccinate, 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 by injection, oral application, or other required methods.
• Follow Standard Operation 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 environments, water and feed, humane treatment, identification and health care for animals, and following euthanasia 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