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 #J-18808-Ljbffr