Overview

A penrider monitors and moves cattle around a feeding operation. Most of their daily duties are completed on horseback.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Utilize a horse to ride through assigned pens daily and identify sick animals by observing outward signs of distress
• Segregate sick cattle for treatment by driving them to nearest hospital pen
• Assist in shipment of cattle by opening gates, driving cattle to shipping areas for weighing; counting cattle and separating strays; checking withdrawals
• Move/drive cattle from one area of the yard to another by utilizing humane low stress techniques including slow movement of cattle
• Return treated cattle to home pens from hospitals
• Return stray animals to home pens
• Ride horse safely by awareness of surroundings and exercise of caution in dangerous situations.
• Maintain appearance of break room by properly disposing of trash, wiping feet upon entering and sweeping/mopping according to posted schedule
• Maintain cleanliness of horse facilities by sweeping floor and cleaning stalls
• Report observed pen maintenance issues to appropriate yard employee for repair (broken water tanks, bunks, holes, etc.)
• Alert supervisor to possible problem pens through observance of unusual trends (including concerns about feed, conditions of cattle received, etc.)
• Comply with all applicable safety and animal welfare rules and policies

What education and training is required?

A high school diploma and knowledge of cattle and horses as well as basic mathematics are key for being a successful penrider.

To pursue a career as a penrider:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, animal science, biology and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Large livestock production companies and feedlots employee penriders.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a penrider will be fair over the next five years.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
• State Cattleman or Feeders Organization