Hazeldene’s Chicken Farm Pty LtdLockwood, Victoria, 3551Poultry FarmerSalary: $75k to $85k paFull-TimeJob Description: Poultry Farmer Hazeldene’s ..
Hazeldene’s Chicken Farm Pty Ltd
Lockwood, Victoria, 3551
Poultry Farmer
Salary: $75k to $85k pa
Full-Time
Job Description: Poultry Farmer
Hazeldene’s has been a leader in the Australian poultry industry since 1938, known for our commitment to animal welfare, sustainable farming, and community support. We produce fresh RSPCA Approved and FREPA Accredited free-range chicken, supplying retailers and wholesalers across Australia. As Bendigo’s largest employer, we proudly support the local community with over 1,000 employees.
Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Poultry Farmer to manage all farm operations, ensuring the health, welfare, and productivity of our poultry while meeting business goals. This role involves overseeing production, livestock management, staff supervision, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Production Management:
• Oversee daily farm operations to achieve production targets, addressing any deviations with the Breeder/Rearing Manager.
• Manage and train farm staff, ensuring effective team leadership through coaching and mentoring.
• Optimize resource use, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with OH&S and quality standards.
• Maintain records of farm activities and liaise with management on operational improvements and best practices.
• Ensure strict adherence to quarantine, biosecurity, and animal welfare protocols.
Livestock Management:
• Breed and raise poultry for egg and meat production, ensuring optimal health and nutrition.
• Monitor feed, water intake, and bird health, including clinical examinations and administering vaccines as needed.
• Organize and manage the transportation, sale, and purchase of poultry, ensuring smooth operations.
Staff & Operations Management:
• Supervise, train, and support staff, conducting performance reviews and ensuring a positive work environment.
• Handle administrative tasks, including staff scheduling, leave approvals, and performance tracking.
• Ensure maintenance of sheds, equipment, and farm facilities, and conduct minor repairs as needed.
Quality & Compliance:
• Uphold quality assurance and biosecurity standards, ensuring all farm operations meet regulatory and company requirements.
• Ensure the safety of all personnel, conducting safety walks, and implementing Return to Work Plans as necessary.
Key Selection Criteria:
• A bachelor’s degree or higher qualification or a minimum of 5 years’ experience in poultry farming or livestock management in
a leadership role.
• At least 2 years' experience in a similar environment.
• Proven skills in business management and leading high-performing teams.
• Strong understanding of OH&S and biosecurity principles.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and regulatory compliance
Key Skills:
• Leadership & Team Management: Ability to lead, coach, and mentor farm staff, fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making: Strong analytical skills to assess farm operations and make informed decisions that optimize productivity and profitability.
• Livestock Health Management: Expertise in monitoring and maintaining poultry health, including administering vaccinations and ensuring compliance with welfare standards.
• Operational Planning & Coordination: Ability to plan and coordinate daily farm activities, ensuring smooth and efficient operations that meet production goals.
• Compliance & Safety Knowledge: Strong understanding of biosecurity, OH&S, and regulatory compliance, ensuring safe and lawful farm operations.
Salary: $75k to $85k pa
