Our client operates a 30-hectare farm in Central Province, Zambia, focused on Broiler production. With a commitment to high-quality poultry and sustainable farming, they are seeking an experienced and hands-on Broiler Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of their broiler unit, ensuring optimal bird health, low mortality, and efficient production systems.
Responsibilities:
Broiler Management:
Oversee the daily operations of the broiler production unit including feeding, watering, temperature control, and overall flock management.
Ensure the health and welfare of broilers throughout their growth cycle from chick placement to market weight.
Monitor and record bird performance, growth rates, feed conversion, and mortality.
Implement and maintain biosecurity and animal welfare standards in all chicken houses.
Operational Leadership:
Lead and manage a team of farm workers, providing training and supervision to ensure adherence to production protocols.
Ensure timely and efficient scheduling of broiler cycles for continuous production.
Maintain compliance with environmental, health, and safety standards.
Collaborate with senior management on production targets, financial planning, and resource allocation.
Nutrition and Feed Management:
Health and Disease Control:
Monitor flock health and respond swiftly to signs of disease or stress.
Coordinate with veterinary support for vaccination programs and treatments.
Maintain accurate health records and report mortality data, with a strong focus on minimizing death rates.
Facilities and Equipment:
Manage and maintain modern chicken house systems, ensuring all equipment (feeders, drinkers, lighting, ventilation) is functional and efficient.
Recommend upgrades and improvements to infrastructure as needed.
Skills:
Hands-on and proactive approach to farm management.
Passion for poultry farming and animal welfare.
Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
Results-oriented with a focus on performance efficiency.
Ability to live and work full-time on a rural farm.
Strong operational management skills including team supervision, reporting, and planning.
Demonstrated ability to work in a rural/agricultural setting and manage production schedules efficiently.
Qualifications:
Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience in broiler farming with a proven track record of low mortality rates and efficient flock management.
Deep knowledge of animal nutrition, poultry health, and modern broiler production systems.
Experience working with modern chicken houses and automated systems is highly desirable.
Degree or Diploma in Animal Science, Poultry Production, Agriculture, or a related field is preferred.
Proficiency in farm record-keeping and basic computer skills.
