Program Associate Jobs in Johnston, IA (NOW HIRING)

Niman Ranch supports a community of more than 600 independent farmers and ranchers who raise pork, beef, and lamb traditionally, humanely, and sustainably to deliver the finest tasting meat. It is part of Perdue Farm, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary 

Location: Can be located anywhere in the midwest region and will require travel.  Drive operational excellence and strong producer partnerships across the Niman Ranch Wean to Finish Program. As a Weaned Pig Program Manager, you will lead the coordination and execution of weaned pig and feeder pig placements between farrowing farms and independent wean-to-finish operations, ensuring efficient animal flow and program success. You will partner closely with farmers, production partners, and internal stakeholders to build trusted relationships, optimize placement strategies, and support the continued growth of the Niman Ranch network. This role is ideal for a highly motivated, organized, and self-starting professional who excels at relationship management, problem-solving, and delivering results in a dynamic agricultural environment. 

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities 

• Coordinate weaned pig placements and optimize flows to meet producer and company needs. 

• Foster relationships with trucking companies and develop trucking routes to minimize costs. 

• Negotiate trucking rates. 

• Foster relationships with existing and new farmers in the wean to finish program. 

• Obtain health papers from veterinarians and dispatch loads in a timely manner. 

• Execute purchase orders and wean to finish contracts in all phases in conjunction with team members. 

• Plan, track, and execute growth of wean to finish spaces in conjunction with team members. 

• Compile weekly weaned pig grade sheets for billing. 

• Track return percentage of market hogs to plant. 

• Complete annual visits to coordinated sow farms to gain knowledge of pig sources. 

• Forecast weaned pig placement numbers for short, intermediate, and long term. 

• Work with the Field Agent team to instill continuous improvement. 

• Maintain functional knowledge of shipping activities and weekly forecasts. 

• Work with the Director of Live Operations to create the long‑term vision that contributes to production goals outlined by the Senior Management Team. 

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Education and Experience 

• Bachelor’s of Science in Animal Science or other agricultural field. 

• 3+ years of swine production experience. 

• Valid driver’s license. 

• Proficiency in general office software. 

• Ability to learn database systems. 

• Regular overnight travel up to 40% weekly. 

• Overnight travel is up to 80% during some periods of the year. 

Preferred Education and Experience 

• Knowledge of high welfare and sustainable swine production. 

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors 

• Position is mostly sedentary but may require occasional moving to other offices or buildings. 

• May need to move light equipment or supplies from one place to another. 

• May need to access files, supplies and equipment. 

• Work activity is in an office, open-partitioned, cubicle environment. 

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.