What is a Beef Production Manager?

Beef production managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a beef cattle farm, ranch or feedlot. Some of their duties include cattle care and supervision, feed management, overseeing veterinary services and financial management.

Cattle Care and Supervision

Cattle care is one of the important aspects of beef production management. Beef production managers are responsible for ensuring that the cattle are healthy and well cared for. They make sure that the animals are fed properly and have access to fresh water. They also monitor the cattle closely to detect signs of illness or injury.

Feed Management

Beef production managers develop and supervise feed management programs for the cattle. Cattle feeding programs are designed to maximize weight gain while minimizing feed costs. Beef production managers typically work closely with nutritionists to develop feed rations that meet the nutritional needs of the cattle.

Veterinary Services

Beef production managers are responsible for overseeing the veterinary services for the cattle. They work closely with veterinarians to develop herd health programs. Herd health programs are designed to prevent diseases and injuries and to treat sick or injured animals. Beef production managers also make sure that the cattle are properly vaccinated and dewormed.

Financial Management

Beef production management also involves financial management. Beef production managers are responsible for budgeting, record keeping and developing financial plans for the operation. They also supervise the sale of the cattle and negotiate prices with buyers.

Education

Beef production managers typically have a degree in animal science or a related field. They also have several years of experience working on a beef cattle operation.

Certification

Some states require managers to be licensed or certified. Licensing and certification requirements vary from state to state.

Skills and qualities

In order to be successful, production managers need a range of skills and qualities, including:

- Business skills and the ability to manage people

- An understanding of animal nutrition

- Experience of livestock production

- Good problem-solving skills

- Commercial awareness

- The ability to work under pressure

Working environment

Beef production managers typically work on farms or ranches. Their working hours may vary, and they may be required to work weekends or holidays.

Salary

Salaries for beef production managers vary depending on their experience, skills, location and the size of the operation. The median annual salary for beef production managers is over 50,000USD.

Career prospects

Beef production managers with a strong combination of skills and experience can often progress to more senior management roles, or they can move into roles in related industries, such as animal nutrition or veterinary services.