Ranch Lead

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we're committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

As a Ranch Lead, you will take a hands-on role in caring for and raising chickens while overseeing daily ranch operations on a company-owned farm. This unique opportunity includes on-site housing provided for you and your immediate family, allowing you to live where you work and be fully connected to the success of the operation. With company-provided housing and basic utilities included in addition to hourly pay, this role offers a rewarding lifestyle and the chance to make a meaningful impact every day in animal care and production.

This position has a base rate of $26-$30 per hour, with opportunities for pay premiums, shift differentials and overtime where applicable. Annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).

In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Follow Company Safety Guidelines and participate in Company Safety Programs.
• Follow all bio-security guidelines and mortality composting.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Comply with Company Policies and Procedures.
• Cull inferior injured or unhealthy birds daily.
• Maintain all required records of the flock.
• Preparation and administration of water treatments.
• Monitor and maintain rodent bait stations monthly.
• Report conditions to supervisor regularly.
• Operate power tools (heavy duty drill), weed-eaters, mowers, and tractor.
• Repair/replace defective poultry equipment.
• Prepare farm for new placement of chicks.
• Prepare farm for harvesting birds.
• Maintain and test emergency equipment.
• Lead and give direction to ranch hands.
• Be available at all hours to address alarms and on-farm emergencies.
• Walk barns frequently, checking on equipment and house conditions.
• Follow all animal welfare guidelines.
• Maintain farm conditions and records for audit readiness.
• Placing chicks in house.
• Operate house controllers for maintaining best environment.
• Adhere to all safety rules including PPE, preventing and reporting unsafe acts and conditions, Lockout-Tagout procedures and Process Safety Management related matters.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School or equivalent.
• Ability to drive a tractor and operate equipment.
• Ability to perform basic calculations in addition and subtraction.
• Ability to read and write.
• Reliable transportation.
• No close contact with domestic or wild birds.
• Ability to communicate in English.
• Ability to carry out specific written or oral instructions.
• Ability to deal with problems and/or adjustments related to changing conditions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with peers and management.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Must be able to work in chicken houses
• Exposure to seasonal weather conditions outside and up to 90 degrees inside
• Exposure to significant amount of airborne dust and feathers
• Exposure to chicken manure and associated odors, including ammonia, especially in the production houses
• Be able to climb a ladder up to 30'
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection as required
• Ability to carry out repetitive motions of the arms, wrists and hands
• Ability to use hands, to feel objects, tool and controls
• Ability to lift, push or pull up to 50 pounds regularly
• Ability to regularly stand, walk, and climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl
• Must have close and distance vision, ability to smell odors, and hear audible sounds
• Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.