Feedlot Manager (Free State) x1
Job Overview – Feedlot Manager (Free State)
- Company: Sterklewies (Pty) Ltd t/a Midland Group
- Location: Free State
- Industry: Agriculture • Livestock • Feedlot Management
- Job Type: Permanent / Temp-to-Permanent
- Employment: Full-time
Introduction
The Midland Group is seeking an experienced, hands-on, and dedicated Feedlot Manager to oversee the full operational, financial, and animal welfare management of one of their cattle feedlots. This role requires strong leadership, deep knowledge of livestock production, and the ability to ensure efficient, compliant, and profitable feedlot operations.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
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Oversee all day-to-day feedlot activities from cattle intake through to marketing/dispatch.
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Develop and implement operational plans to improve efficiency.
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Optimise feed delivery, cattle flow, and bunk management.
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Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of cattle performance, movements, and inventories.
Livestock & Animal Welfare
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Monitor animal health, welfare, and behaviour in line with best practices and South African regulations, including the Animals Protection Act.
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Coordinate disease diagnosis and treatment; work closely with veterinarians and animal health technicians.
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Implement vaccination, parasite control, and biosecurity protocols.
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Ensure humane, low-stress cattle handling and staff training.
Nutrition & Feeding
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Collaborate with nutritionists to create and refine feeding programs.
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Supervise feed mixing, feed ration accuracy, and bunk management.
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Monitor key performance indicators such as ADG (Average Daily Gain), feed conversion efficiency, and mortality rates.
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Manage feed ingredient inventories and quality.
Staff Leadership & HR
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Assist with recruiting, training, evaluating, and supervising feedlot personnel (pen riders, feeders, maintenance teams, admin).
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Manage staff schedules, task allocation, and performance standards.
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Enforce OHSA health and safety requirements.
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Foster a positive and productive team environment.
Financial & Administrative Management
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Prepare and manage operational budgets and cost controls.
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Oversee purchasing (feed ingredients, veterinary supplies, equipment).
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Compile operational and performance reports for senior management.
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Ensure regulatory compliance and audit readiness.
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Assist in theft prevention and risk mitigation.
Maintenance & Infrastructure
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Oversee maintenance of pens, machinery, equipment, water systems, waste systems, feed mills, and infrastructure.
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Implement preventative maintenance programs to minimise downtime.
Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
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Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, including waste management and water-use regulations.
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Maintain records for audits, inspections, and certifications.
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Promote sustainable feedlot practices.
Minimum Requirements
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Diploma/Degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Management, Livestock Production, or a related field (advantageous).
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3–5+ years experience in feedlot management or large-scale livestock operations.
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Strong understanding of cattle nutrition, behaviour, and health.
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Proven experience managing staff.
Preferred Requirements
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Experience within the South African feedlot industry and full regulatory framework.
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Proficiency in feedlot management software and Microsoft Office (Excel & Outlook).
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Mechanical aptitude for equipment and feed mill operations.
Skills & Competencies
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Excellent leadership and communication skills.
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Strong decision-making and problem-solving ability.
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High organisational ability and attention to detail.
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Financial literacy and budget/schedule management.
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Ability to work long hours, including weekends when required.
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Strong commitment to animal welfare and ethical production.
Salary & Benefits
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Negotiable, based on experience.
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Access to a company vehicle + diesel/fleet card for work use.
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Housing not included (manager must arrange their own accommodation)