Feedlot Manager, Springs

Job Title:

Feedlot Manager

Industry:

Agriculture / Livestock / Abattoir Operations

Location:

South Africa

Reporting To:

Operations Manager / General Manager

Job Purpose To manage and oversee all feedlot operations supplying livestock to the abattoir, ensuring optimal animal health, growth performance, feed efficiency, and compliance with animal welfare and food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

Feedlot Operations Management

Oversee daily operations of the feedlot, including feeding, watering, and general livestock care

Ensure proper stocking densities and movement of cattle

Monitor weight gain, feed conversion ratios, and overall herd performance

Coordinate supply of animals to the abattoir according to production schedules

Animal Health&Welfare

Implement and monitor animal health programs (vaccinations, treatments, disease control)

Work closely with veterinarians to prevent and manage outbreaks

Ensure compliance with South African animal welfare regulations

Maintain humane handling practices at all times

Nutrition&Feeding Programs

Develop and implement feeding strategies for optimal growth

Monitor feed quality, storage, and usage

Liaise with nutritionists to adjust rations based on performance and cost efficiency

Staff Management

Supervise feedlot staff, including handlers, drivers, and general workers

Conduct training on animal handling, safety, and operational procedures

Manage staff schedules, performance, and discipline

Compliance&Biosecurity

Ensure compliance with Department of Agriculture regulations, Food safety standards (e.g., HACCP), Environmental and waste management laws

Implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent disease introduction/spread

Record Keeping&Reporting

Maintain accurate records of livestock inventory, feed consumption, mortality rates, medical treatments

Prepare reports on performance, costs, and productivity

Budget&Cost Control

Manage feedlot budget, including feed costs, labour, and veterinary expenses

Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs

Equipment&Facility Maintenance

Ensure proper maintenance of feedlot infrastructure (pens, fencing, water systems)

Oversee maintenance of feeding and handling equipment

Minimum Requirements Education

Diploma or Degree in:

Animal Science

Agriculture

Livestock Production

Veterinary-related field

Experience

5–8 years’ experience in feedlot or livestock management

Experience within an abattoir or meat production environment advantageous

Proven experience managing teams and large-scale livestock operations

Knowledge&Skills

Strong knowledge of:

Cattle production systems

Feedlot management practices

Animal health and nutrition

Understanding of South African agricultural and food safety regulations

Financial and operational management skills

Leadership and staff management ability

Problem-solving and decision-making skills

Computer literacy (MS Office, farm management systems)

Key Competencies

Leadership and team management

Attention to detail

High level of responsibility and accountability

Ability to work under pressure

Strong organizational and planning skills

Working Conditions

Outdoor work in varying weather conditions

Long and irregular hours, including weekends if required

Physically demanding environment

Exposure to livestock and farm-related hazards

Additional Requirements

Valid driver’s license

Willingness to live on-site (if required)

Knowledge of health&safety standards

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