Fodder Production Manager at Stratostaff

ROLE PURPOSE  

• The Fodder Production Manager will plan and oversee fodder cultivation, production, harvesting and feed supply to ensure consistent delivery of high quality feed that supports the herd under the fattening program. The role will coordinate feed output with herd nutritional demand and manage production operations efficiently.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES   

• Fodder Cultivation & Management – Manage large-scale irrigated or rain-fed fodder production areas. This includes seed selection, planting schedules, irrigation management, soil fertility programs, and integrated pest management.
• Harvesting & Storage – Oversee all harvesting operations and implement proper preservation techniques, such as making high-quality silage or hay, to minimize spoilage and nutrient loss.
• Feed Processing & Formulation – Operate and maintain feed processing equipment (mixers, shredders, pelletizers). Develop and implement balanced, cost-effective feed rations tailored for specific fattening stages using on-site fodder and supplemental ingredients.
• Livestock Fattening Support – Collaborate with the ranch/livestock manager to align fodder supply with fattening schedules and target market dates. Ensure scientific feeding protocols are followed to achieve optimal daily weight gain.
• Quality Control & Analysis – Conduct regular nutritional analysis of fodder and feed ingredients (e.g., dry matter content, crude protein, energy levels) to ensure all nutritional requirements are met.
• Budgeting & Resource Management – Develop and manage production budgets, control costs, and oversee the maintenance of all farm machinery and equipment.
• Team Leadership & Safety – Supervise, train, and manage the fodder production team, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Record Keeping – Maintain detailed records of crop yields, feed production, feed conversion ratios, and animal performance to monitor progress and inform future planning.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Nutrition, or a related field or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of proven experience in commercial fodder production and/or farm management, preferably in a ranch or feedlot environment.
• Hands-on experience with livestock feed formulation and processing equipment is essential.
• Strong knowledge of soil health, crop rotation, irrigation systems, and sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment with flexibility for extended hours during peak season.