Job description

Job Summary: The Animal Husbandry Associate for broilers will be responsible for supporting the management and care of broiler chickens throughout their lifecycle, from hatch to market. Should have a passion for animal welfare, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to producing high-quality broilers efficiently and sustainably.

Responsibilities:

SETUP

1. Market Research and Business Plan: Conduct market research to assess demand for broiler meat in your target market. Identify competitors, suppliers, and potential customers. Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target market, marketing strategy, operational plan, and financial projections.
2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Familiarize yourself with regulations governing poultry farming, food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Ensure compliance with zoning regulations and land use policies for establishing poultry facilities.
3. Equipment and Supplies: Advice on necessary equipment and supplies for broiler production, such as feeding and watering systems, heating and ventilation equipment, lighting fixtures, bedding material, and biosecurity measures. Ensure that equipment meets industry standards and is properly maintained for optimal performance.
4. Breeding Stock and Genetics: Guide on sourcing of high-quality broiler chicks or hatching eggs from reputable suppliers with a focus on genetic traits such as growth rate, feed efficiency, and disease resistance. Consider factors such as breed selection, broiler strain, and parent stock management practices to optimize production efficiency and meat quality.
5. Feed and Nutrition: In collaboration with the feed mill industry review and or develop a nutritionally balanced diet for broilers that meets their dietary requirements at different stages of growth and undertake continuous review of feed suppliers to ensure a reliable supply of feed ingredients.
6. Health Management and Biosecurity: Strictly Implement biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases within the broiler flock. In collaboration with Veterinary Associate develop a vaccination program and health management plan in consultation with a veterinarian to minimize disease risks and promote flock health.
7. Labor and Management: Train personnel with in broiler production, animal husbandry, and farm management.
8. SOP Development: Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for day-to-day farm operations and provide ongoing training and supervision to ensure compliance.
9. Marketing and Sales: In collaboration with Marketing Associate develop a marketing strategy to promote your broiler products and differentiate your brand in the market. Establish relationships with wholesalers, retailers, restaurants, and other potential customers to secure sales channels for your products.
10. Financial Management: Prepare a budget detailing startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue projections. Work with Finance office to ensure goods are acquired in time Monitor financial performance closely and adjust your business plan as needed to achieve profitability and long-term sustainability.
11. Risk Management: Identify potential risks and challenges associated with broiler production, such as disease outbreaks, market fluctuations, and environmental factors. Develop risk management strategies and contingency plans to mitigate risks and ensure business continuity.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

1. Daily Care and Management: Provide daily care and management of broiler chickens, including feeding, watering, and monitoring flock health and behaviour.
2. Housing and Environment: Ensure that broiler housing facilities are clean, well-maintained, and properly ventilated to provide optimal living conditions for the birds.
3. Health Monitoring and Disease Management: Monitor flock health and welfare, conduct regular health assessments, and identify and respond to signs of illness or disease promptly. Administer vaccinations and medications as directed by the veterinarian or farm management.
4. Nutrition Management: Assist with feeding operations, ensuring that broilers receive a balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements. Monitor feed consumption and adjust feeding programs as needed to optimize growth and performance.
5. Biosecurity and Pest Control: Implement and maintain biosecurity protocols to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases within the broiler facility. Monitor and control pests such as rodents and insects to minimize health risks to the flock.
6. Record-Keeping and Documentation: Maintain accurate records of daily activities, including feeding, medication administration, health observations, and environmental conditions. Ensure that all documentation is complete, organized, and compliant with company policies and regulatory requirements.
7. Harvesting and Processing: Assist with the harvesting and processing of broilers for market, following proper procedures to ensure food safety and product quality. Adhere to hygiene and sanitation standards to maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination.
8. Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment and facilities, including feeders, waterers, ventilation systems, and lighting. Report any equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs to farm management promptly.
9. Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with farm management, veterinarians, and other team members to achieve production goals, address challenges, and implement best practices in broiler management.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Educational Background: A bachelor's degree in animal science, poultry science, agriculture, or a related field.
2. Experience: Practical experience in poultry farming, with a focus on broiler production. Track record of managing broiler flocks and overseeing all aspects of production from hatch to harvest.
3. Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of broiler management practices, including breeding, genetics, nutrition, health management, housing systems, and environmental control. Familiarity with industry best practices, regulations, and emerging trends.
4. Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and management abilities to effectively lead and supervise a team of farm workers, technicians, and other personnel. The ability to motivate, coach, and empower team members to achieve production goals is essential.
5. Problem-Solving Abilities: Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and address challenges related to broiler production, such as disease outbreaks, feed quality issues, equipment malfunctions, and environmental factors. The ability to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently.
6. Communication Skills: Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are necessary for interacting with farm staff, suppliers, veterinarians, and other stakeholders. Able to convey instructions clearly, provide feedback, and collaborate with others to achieve objectives.
7. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and ensure efficient operation of the broiler farm. Attention to detail and accuracy in record-keeping and documentation.
8. Financial Acumen: Understanding of financial principles and budget management to monitor production costs, optimize resource utilization, and maximize profitability. Experience with financial analysis, budgeting, and cost control measures.
9. Animal Welfare and Health Awareness: A commitment to animal welfare and ethical farming practices is essential. Prioritize the health and well-being of the birds and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations related to animal welfare.
10. Adaptability and Resilience: Flexibility and adaptability to respond effectively to changing market conditions, technological advancements, and unforeseen challenges in the broiler production industry. The ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt strategies.
11. Continuous Learning and Development: A willingness to stay updated on industry developments, new technologies, and best practices through ongoing training, professional development opportunities, and networking with peers in the poultry industry.