Feedlot Manager

Position Overview

Feedlot managers oversee feed yard operations. They will see that the animals are taken care of effectively every day. This includes caring for the animals, providing appropriate portioning and feed, watching their nutrition, and marketing the animals for sale. Feedlot managers are commonly needed on beef cattle farms. They may manage thousands of animals at one time, depending on farm size and their experience level. Feedlot managers will set up feeding programs for the herd and other effective animal care techniques for optimal health and growth for every animal. They often source the animal feed, working within a predetermined budget that still meets the nutritional needs of the cattle. They may be responsible for hiring other staff to assist with the feedlot operations, cleaning the feedlot, or managing the repairs for equipment and fencing onsite. Overall, feedlot managers must maintain appropriate animal welfare to comply with all laws and regulations in their area, and to also ensure animals can be sold for a good price to any potential buyers.

Feedlot Manager Duties

• Manage the sale of livestock to buyers
• Handle livestock feed sales representatives
• Work with veterinarians to ensure animal health is maintained, and any sickness is caught immediately
• Manage the shipment of animals to and from the facility when needed
• Maintain a clean feedlot
• Stay current on industry trends to ensure new standards and regulations are still being met
• Develop a feeding program for the herd, taking into account any special considerations
• Understand the nutritional requirements for the livestock of relevance, considering what promotes healthy growth
• Manage a feed budget
• Purchase forage needed for the animals, and any other materials or equipment required
• Report on weekly feedlot performance
• Manage all other feedlot staff effectively
• Ensure health and safety standards are met
• Repair broken or damaged equipment as needed
• Record all feedlot information electronically

Typical Employers

• Ranch or farm
• Self-employed
• Contract growers
• Integrated production facilities

Required Education and Training

Typically, those who are hired as a feedlot manager have a bachelor's or associates degree in agricultural marketing, agricultural business, or animal science. Other related degrees may also be considered. Candidates without a degree will only be considered if they have 5 or more years of experience related to the industry. Feedlot managers should have a good understanding of ration formulation, managing forage, and bovine nutrition.

Key Skills and Qualities

• Excellent computer skills
• Good business sense
• Genuine interest in livestock management / care
• Excellent multitasking skills
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Dependable
• Detail-oriented
• Good time management skills
• Ability to act quickly when needed
• Good decision making skills

Average Salary

• Entry level feedlot managers will make an annual salary of about £25,000
• The average salary for feedlot managers is £45,000
• A senior level feedlot manager with several years of experience can make over £65,000