SUMMARY:
To help breed and raise chickens and ensure their well being is kept at the highest of standards

POSITION INFO:

Poulterer

Location: Western Cape, Eden District, George

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Primary Industry: Agriculture

Secondary Industry: Agriculture

Job Description

The role of Poulterer involves the care, management and processing of poultry to ensure the highest standards of health, welfare and product quality. This position requires hands-on responsibility for daily husbandry tasks, disease prevention, feeding regimes, and maintaining records in compliance with agricultural standards and regulations. The Poulterer works within a structured farming environment in the Eden District and supports sustainable agricultural practises.

Job Duties

• Manage the daily care and welfare of poultry, including feeding, watering, and monitoring health.
• Inspect poultry regularly for signs of illness or distress and administer treatments or arrange veterinary care as necessary.
• Maintain clean and safe living environments by regularly cleaning housing, equipment, and surrounding areas.
• Implement biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain flock health.
• Assist with the vaccination, breeding, and egg collection processes.
• Record and monitor production data, including growth rates, feed consumption, mortality rates and egg production.
• Operate machinery and equipment associated with poultry management and processing safely and efficiently.
• Ensure compliance with relevant agricultural legislation, food safety standards and animal welfare regulations.
• Support the processing and packaging of poultry products where required, maintaining hygiene and quality control standards.
• Contribute to the maintenance of stock inventories, ordering supplies as necessary.
• Collaborate with management to improve operational procedures and productivity.

Required Qualifications

• Basic agricultural or animal husbandry qualification or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrable understanding of poultry care and farming practises.
• Proven ability to follow health and safety protocols in an agricultural environment.

Education

Minimum National Senior Certificate or equivalent. Further education in agriculture, animal science or related fields is advantageous.

Experience

• At least two years’ experience working with poultry or in a similar agricultural role.
• Experience in handling live birds and knowledge of poultry health management.
• Experience in record keeping and operating relevant machinery is preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

• Sound knowledge of poultry biology, nutrition, and welfare requirements.
• Familiarity with biosecurity and disease control measures.
• Good practical skills in animal husbandry and farm maintenance.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety.
• Basic literacy and numeracy skills for record keeping and reporting.
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform manual tasks in various weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal certification in poultry farming or agriculture.
• First aid training, particularly related to animal welfare.
• Experience with computerised record systems or agricultural management software.

Working Conditions

The role is predominantly outdoor and requires working in varying weather conditions typical of the Western Cape region. Physical labour is an integral part of the role, including lifting, bending and standing for extended periods. The position requires adherence to strict health and safety protocols and may involve early mornings, late evenings or weekend work as dictated by the operational needs of the agricultural business. Protective clothing and equipment are provided to ensure safety and comfort.