Feedlot Manager Free State x1
- Position: Feedlot Manager
- Location: Free State
- Company: Sterklewies (Pty) Ltd t/a Midland Group
- Type: Permanent (or temp → permanent), full-time
Job Description
The Feedlot Manager is responsible for managing all operations of a cattle feedlot: livestock welfare, nutrition, health, staff management, financial oversight, procurement, infrastructure maintenance, environmental compliance, and overall performance. The role ensures efficient, ethical, profitable, and legally compliant feedlot operations aligned with South African legislation. Salary is negotiable; a company vehicle is provided; housing is not included.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
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Manage the full feedlot cycle—from livestock intake to marketing and dispatch.
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Develop and implement operational strategies and daily plans.
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Oversee bunk management, feed delivery efficiency, cattle flow, and record-keeping.
Livestock Health & Welfare
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Monitor animal behaviour, health, and welfare in accordance with South African legislation and feedlot best practices.
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Supervise disease monitoring, treatment protocols, and work closely with veterinarians.
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Enforce biosecurity, vaccination programs, parasite control, and humane handling procedures.
Nutrition & Feeding
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Collaborate with nutritionists on feed programs and ration optimisation.
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Oversee feed mixing, ration accuracy, ingredient stock levels, and feedlot performance metrics (ADG, FCR, mortality, etc.).
Staff Leadership
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Assist with recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance management of operational teams.
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Enforce safety policies aligned with OHSA.
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Promote a positive and disciplined work culture.
Financial & Administrative Management
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Manage budgets, cost controls, and forecasting.
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Oversee procurement of feed ingredients, veterinary supplies, and equipment.
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Prepare operational, financial, and performance reports for senior management.
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Maintain regulatory and audit compliance and implement risk-control measures including theft prevention.
Infrastructure & Maintenance
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Ensure the upkeep of equipment, pens, water systems, waste systems, and feed-mill infrastructure.
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Implement preventative maintenance schedules.
Environmental & Legislative Compliance
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Ensure adherence to environmental and water-use regulations.
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Maintain required records for audits and certifications.
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Promote sustainability across operations.
Minimum Requirements
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Diploma/degree/background in Animal Science, Agricultural Management, Livestock Production (advantageous).
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3–5+ years’ experience in feedlot or large-scale livestock management.
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Strong knowledge of cattle nutrition, behaviour, and health.
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Proven leadership and staff management experience.
Preferred Skills
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Experience with South African feedlot legislation and standards.
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Computer proficiency (feedlot software, Outlook, Excel).
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Mechanical aptitude.
Competencies
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Excellent leadership and communication.
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Strong problem solving and decision-making ability.
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High organisation and attention to detail.
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Financial literacy and ability to manage budgets.
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Ability to work long hours, including weekends.
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Commitment to animal welfare.
Package
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Salary negotiable (based on experience).
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Company vehicle + fleet/diesel card for work use.
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Housing not provided.
Key Skills and Requirements Highlighted
Core Technical Skills
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Feedlot operations management
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Cattle health, welfare, and behaviour knowledge
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Nutrition and feeding program management
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Biosecurity and veterinary protocols
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Record-keeping and feedlot software
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Infrastructure and equipment maintenance
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Environmental compliance and waste management
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Budgeting and financial management
Leadership & Soft Skills
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Staff recruitment, training, and supervision
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Strong communication skills
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Decision-making under pressure
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Problem-solving in operational settings
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Organisational and time-management skills
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Ethical approach to animal handling
Regulatory Knowledge
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Animals Protection Act
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Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
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Environmental and water-use legislation
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Audit and certification compliance