Overview

Breeding or Multiplication Managers are responsible for all aspects of a company or organization’s breeding departments. In the swine industry, these professionals are known as Farrowing Managers.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Oversee the welfare, feeding, monitoring, record-keeping, care and day-to-day management of the animals in your department
• Oversee room set-up and initial inspections for mother animals
• Confirm that all animals have proper feed and water
• Monitor and assist mother animals during birth
• Monitor health of all animals
• Oversee C-sections as needed
• Manage proper euthanization to mother and baby animals
• Warrant that vaccinations of mother and baby animals are completed
• Manage weaning
• Oversee that nursery processes are completed and that wounds are treated (tail length, castration, tattooing, ruptures)
• Ensure proper ventilation to animals and assign heat lamp management
• Schedule and assign tasks to meet production goals
• Oversee general maintenance of facility including cleanliness, pest control, feed systems, power washing, etc.
• Complete daily checks on security and alarm systems, and respond to them
• Train and develop breeding staff
• Keep records and paperwork of breeding, births, weaning, illness and disease, accidents, supplies and euthanizations
• Maintain the highest level of animal health and welfare

What education and training is required?

A high school degree is required, but an associate’s degree in agribusiness or animal science would be preferred.

To pursue a career as a Breeding Manager:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, biology, anatomy, computer courses and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Breeding managers are typically employed by livestock companies or large farms.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a breeding manager will be good over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• American Association of Swine Practitioners
• American Association of Bovine Practitioners
• Dairy Farmers of America