Poultry Farm Worker Career Overview – Learn What They Do
A poultry farm worker works in the daily tasks of the farm. Performing maintenance on watering, heating and the housing if needed.
Typical duties may include collecting eggs, feeding the flock, and checking on birds to ensure they’re healthy.
What responsibilities do poultry farm workers have?
In addition to the above responsibilities, poultry farm workers may also have the following responsibilities:
- Adjust lighting as necessary for birds
- Cleaning and sorting eggs after collection
- Follow cleanliness procedures for entering and exiting houses
- Manage facility temperature to keep birds healthy and comfortable
- Routine checks to identify injured and sick birds
- Guarantee birds can get to food and water
- Provide the highest standards of animal welfare possible
How to become a poultry farm worker
A high school diploma along with having taken courses in biology, animal science, and agricultural education.
While not required in every instance, an associate degree in animal husbandry or animal science can be beneficial.
Work opportunities
Poultry farm workers typically work on small to mid size farms directly under farmers.
Some may find opportunities in larger operations as well.
Professional associations and organizations
A day in the life of a poultry farm worker
A poultry farm worker is responsible for the care and management of poultry, including chickens, ducks, and turkeys. They play a crucial role in the poultry farming industry, ensuring that poultry is healthy and well-cared for, and that farms operate efficiently. Here is what a typical day in the life of a poultry farm worker might look like.
Early Morning
The day for a poultry farm worker typically begins early in the morning, before sunrise. They may start by checking on the poultry, making sure that they have sufficient food and water and are in good health. This may involve working with a team of farm workers or overseeing their work.
The worker may also check the condition of the poultry house, making sure that it is clean and well-maintained. They may collect eggs and monitor the temperature and ventilation in the poultry house.
Mid-Morning
As the day progresses, the poultry farm worker may move on to other tasks, such as cleaning and disinfecting the poultry house. This may involve using specialized equipment to remove manure and other waste products and applying disinfectants to keep the poultry house clean and free of disease.
The worker may also be responsible for monitoring the health of the poultry, identifying any signs of illness or disease and providing treatment as needed. This may involve administering medication or working with a veterinarian to develop a treatment plan.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, the worker may continue with the tasks from the morning or move on to new ones. They may be responsible for feeding the poultry, ensuring that they receive a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
The worker may also be responsible for managing the flock, which may involve monitoring the growth and development of the birds, weighing them regularly, and making adjustments to their diet as needed.
Evening
As the day comes to a close, the worker may finish up any tasks that need to be completed, such as collecting eggs or reviewing farm records. They may also use this time to clean and maintain equipment or perform other routine tasks.
Being a poultry farm worker requires a high level of attention to detail and technical expertise. It is an essential role in the agricultural industry, helping to ensure that poultry is healthy and well-cared for, and that farms operate efficiently. By working closely with farm managers, veterinarians, and other professionals, a poultry farm worker can help to ensure the long-term success of a farm and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.