Senior Live Production Manager

Job Description

At our company, we prioritize the health and wellness of our team members. We are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package that supports you and your family, ensuring your well-being both inside and outside the workplace. Team members are eligible for these benefits starting day one of full-time employment. All U.S.-based team members also have access to fully funded diplomas, certificates, and degrees through high-quality programs, schools, and universities from the first day of employment.

Position Summary:
This role is part of our Poultry business unit and is responsible for managing Smart Chicken’s Live Production, including company farms and contract growers. The position focuses on maintaining low operating costs, maximizing revenue, fostering employee and grower morale, ensuring compliance with regulatory agencies and certification programs, and promoting safe conditions while maintaining a positive community image.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee breed mix, feed, and growout programs to optimize production efficiency and quality.

• Manage health and nutrition programs, ensuring best practices for animal welfare and grower relations.

• Coordinate with the Live Haul department to schedule logistics for broiler growout and producer deliveries.

• Supervise maintenance and operation of company vehicles related to Live Production.

• Analyze grower performance and mortality (DOA) statistics to identify and resolve issues.

• Collaborate with departments on feed milling processes and production challenges.

• Conduct weekly management meetings to address concerns and foster communication.

• Work with Safety Management personnel to implement safety protocols and training programs.

• Engage with the community to enhance the company’s public image and address local concerns.

• Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support overall production goals.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of six years of experience in poultry production or a related area preferred. Strong leadership or supervisory experience is a plus.

• Computer Skills: Proficiency in basic computer operations, including email communication and data entry into management software. Experience with Excel and other applications is required.

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to manage diverse teams across multiple departments.

• Physical Requirements: Must use safe lifting techniques. Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle objects, reach with hands and arms, balance, stoop, talk, or hear. Occasionally required to lift or move up to 25 pounds.

• Personal Protective Equipment: Must follow required safety procedures and wear the necessary protective equipment when visiting facilities.

• Biosecurity: Must comply with biosecurity regulations, including showering before entering facilities. Appropriate clothing and footwear are provided. No jewelry is allowed on jobsites except for medical ID jewelry. Must be willing to sign an agreement to avoid any avian species, including chickens, ducks, and other birds. The Company Animal Welfare Policy must be followed at all times.

• Supervisory Responsibilities: Ability to manage diverse teams across multiple departments.

• Travel: Willingness to travel 12 to 18 trips per year for farm visits and community engagement.

Benefits and Perks:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Telehealth services

• Well-being support programs

• FSA and HSA options

• 401(k)

• Stock purchase plan

• Company-paid life insurance

• Short-term & long-term disability

• Fully funded education

• Employee discount program

Join our team and contribute to a thriving poultry production operation while benefiting from a comprehensive support system designed for your success.