Overview

A swine nursery farm worker oversees the health of newly weaned piglets to ensure optimal growth at an early age in the pig’s life. 

What responsibilities will I have?

• Maintain barn temperature and ventilation equipment and controls to provide the right amount of heat and fresh air for best environment to promote growth
• Prepare feed formulations to meet the changing nutritional needs of young pigs
• Preform pen management, culling, sorting, and safety procedures

• Report potential or existing problems to Production Supervisor/Assistant Production Supervisor
• Ensure proper usage of medication following the drug residue avoidance/broken needle policies, along with keeping accurate records of data
• Unloading/sorting of wean pigs according to weekly schedules
• Some maintenance work is required, along with troubleshooting problems with equipment and filling out work orders
• Responsible for accurate and timely record keeping of nursery activities
• Perform euthanasia according to company policy, and in a timely manner

What education and training is required?

Although it is not required associates or bachelor’s degrees in animal science or animal husbandry would be very helpful.

To pursue a career as a Swine-Nursery Farm worker:

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

Where can I work?

Swine – Nursery Farm workers is employed by swine production farms who house and produce swine for processing.  

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a swine farm worker will be good over the next five years.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• National Pork Producer’s Council
• Sate pork association
• National FFA Alumni Association