Poultry Operations Manager

Poultry Operations Manager

As part of the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) team, the Poultry Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of poultry production, ensuring optimal animal welfare, biosecurity, productivity, and profitability at the Multispecies Animal Learning Complex (MALC). This role involves managing daily operations, supervising students, maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations, and implementing best practices in poultry farming. The Poultry Operations Manager will foster a collaborative team environment across the MALC and Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory, promoting effective communication, shared accountability, and alignment of operational goals to support integrated farm management.

Operational Management : Manage all aspects of poultry care, including feeding, health monitoring, housing, and environmental controls. Oversee the operation and maintenance of the aviary, ensuring welfare standards and teaching and production goals are met. Supervise the egg processing system, including collection, cleaning, grading, packaging, and inventory management. Monitor flock health and performance, coordinating with veterinarians and nutritionists as needed. Ensure timely and efficient egg or meat production, depending on the operation type (broiler, layer, turkey). Maintain accurate records related to animal health, production, and compliance and analyze data to identify trends and areas for improvement. Manage inventory of feed, medications, equipment, and supplies. Prepare and manage budgets, track expenses, and optimize cost-efficiency. Recruit, train, and manage student employees. Schedule shifts and delegate responsibilities to ensure smooth operation. Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Compliance & Biosecurity : Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding animal welfare, food safety, and environmental standards. Work closely with the Biosecurity Manager to develop and enforce biosecurity protocols for poultry operations. Monitor animal health and manage quarantine procedures. Oversee sanitation and disinfection of equipment and facilities. Train staff and students on biosecurity practices. Promote a culture of biosecurity awareness and accountability. Support academic programs through experiential learning and may assist with hands-on instruction. Coordinate on-farm research trials and data collection with faculty PIs. Contribute to innovation in livestock and biosecurity management practices.

Minimum education required : Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Agribusiness, or related field (or equivalent experience). Required qualifications : 3 years of experience in poultry production. 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role. Strong knowledge of poultry health, nutrition, and biosecurity practices. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Proficiency in farm management software and Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as needed. Desired qualifications : 5 years of experience in poultry production. Working Conditions : Exposure to dust, odors, and varying temperatures. Physical Requirements : Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Work in varying environmental conditions (hot, cold, humid). Capable of wearing PPE for extended periods and performing physical labor. Requires physical activity including lifting, walking, and standing for extended periods. Salary Range : $58,700-$77,200. Accepting applications until 11 / 17 at 12am.