Vacancies 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.

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ROLE PURPOSE 

• The Livestock Specialist will oversee daily ranch operations related to livestock health, nutrition, and management. They will be responsible for leading and implementing a comprehensive fattening program for the herd, ensuring that cattle reach optimal condition and weight in preparation for market or downstream use. The Specialist will also oversee herd health, welfare, and performance management, combining technical expertise with strategic oversight to maximize productivity and quality.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES   

• Animal Health & Welfare –  Conduct daily examinations of animals to detect illness or injury, administer medications and vaccinations as required, and coordinate with veterinarians for complex issues. Ensure all animal handling procedures prioritize animal welfare.
• Nutrition & Feeding Programs –  Design, implement, and monitor specialized feeding plans and balanced rations to achieve target weight gain efficiently. Mix feeds, additives, and supplements in prescribed portions and monitor food and water supplies.
• Grazing & Pasture Management –  Implement sustainable and regenerative grazing practices, including rotational grazing plans, to enhance soil health and ensure sufficient forage access.
• Operational Management – Oversee daily ranch tasks, including cleaning pens, maintaining equipment and facilities (fencing, water systems, barns), and operating farm machinery.
• Infrastructure Maintenance – Perform regular maintenance and simple repairs on related equipment, machinery, buildings, pens, fences, and water systems.
• Record Keeping – Maintain accurate and detailed records on animal health, feeding regimens, growth progress, and production costs.
• Team Collaboration – Train and supervise ranch hands or other farm workers, fostering a collaborative and safe working environment.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• A Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Animal Science, Veterinary Medicine, or a related agricultural field is typically required.
• Relevant experience in livestock management, particularly in commercial feedlot or ranch settings.
• Extensive experience in cattle fattening or livestock production, preferably with large herds
• Strong knowledge of cattle nutrition, growth optimization, health management, and welfare best practices
• Strong observational skills, physical stamina to work outdoors in various weather conditions, ability to operate farm machinery (tractors, ATVs), and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proven experience supervising livestock teams or farm staff in a structured production environment.