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