Job Summary
Provides leadership and direction for all pen maintenance operations, ensuring the structural integrity, cleanliness, and functionality of livestock pens and other items needed within the feedlot/farming enterprise. Promotes high standards of animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and operational efficiency while leading and developing a high-performing maintenance team.
Job Responsibilities
Safety
- Lead and enforce a safety-first culture in all activities.
- Ensure proper operation of heavy equipment and adherence to all safety procedures, including PPE use.
- Identify, report, and correct hazards related to equipment, facilities, and pen conditions.
- Train team members on safe work practices, pen hazards, equipment operation, and material handling.
- Maintain compliance with all environmental and workplace safety regulations.
Quality
- Ensure pens, fences, bunks, and water systems are maintained to high functional and durability standards.
- Maintain proper pen conditions to support animal health, comfort, and performance.
- Verify that manure management and drainage systems function effectively to prevent buildup and runoff issues.
- Inspect completed work to ensure repairs are done correctly and meet company expectations.
- Maintain consistent standards of cleanliness and organization across all areas.
Productivity
- Plan and prioritize daily and seasonal maintenance tasks to maximize efficiency.
- Ensure timely completion of pen cleaning, repairs, and manure hauling schedules.
- Optimize use of labor, equipment, and materials to reduce downtime and costs.
- Anticipate maintenance needs and address issues proactively to prevent larger repairs.
- Track and minimize waste while improving workflow processes.
Teamwork
- Lead, train, and support maintenance crew members to build a skilled and accountable team.
- Communicate clearly with feed, cattle, and management teams to coordinate activities.
- Foster a positive work environment built on respect, accountability, and collaboration.
- Provide ongoing coaching and constructive feedback to improve individual and team performance.
- Step in as needed to support team members and ensure work is completed effectively.
Attendance
- Maintain consistent and reliable attendance to meet operational demands.
- Demonstrate flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, or seasonal demands as required.
- Ensure adequate team coverage for all maintenance functions.
- Communicate promptly regarding schedule changes, delays, or absences.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Extensive experience operating heavy equipment in an agricultural setting.
- Strong mechanical aptitude for repairing fencing, water systems, and facility components.
- Valid driver’s license.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physically demanding labor, including stooping, kneeling, and crawling.