Feedlot Utility Technician

Job Summary

The Feedlot Utility Technician is a versatile, skilled team member responsible for supporting all areas of feedlot operations. This position primary responsibilities will be welding, fabrication, pen construction and repair. At times this position will assist with harvest, cattle processing, pen maintenance, equipment operation, feed delivery, and other general feedlot duties. The individual must demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, animal welfare, operational efficiency, and teamwork while maintaining a high level of flexibility to assist wherever needed throughout the operation.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and feedlot operating standards.
• Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe boots.
• Safely operate welders, cutting torches, grinders, power tools, loaders, tractors, skid steers, feed trucks, four-wheelers, and other equipment.
• Conduct pre-operation inspections on vehicles, equipment, and tools before use.
• Maintain awareness of cattle behavior and utilize low-stress animal handling techniques.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures when servicing or repairing equipment.
• Report safety hazards, near misses, injuries, and equipment defects immediately.
• Practice safe driving procedures while operating feed trucks, service vehicles, and ATVs.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas to prevent slips, trips, falls, and fire hazards.
• Participate in safety meetings and training programs.

Quality Responsibilities

• Construct, repair, and maintain pens, fences, gates, bunks, and facilities according to company standards.
• Perform welding and fabrication work that meets structural and operational requirements.
• Ensure cattle processing procedures are completed accurately, including identification, vaccinations, treatments, and recordkeeping.
• Deliver feed according to established rations and feeding schedules.
• Monitor equipment and facilities for maintenance needs to prevent operational disruptions.
• Maintain feedlot appearance and facility standards.
• Support animal health and welfare by identifying and reporting sick or injured cattle.
• Complete work assignments with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Follow all biosecurity and sanitation procedures.

Productivity Responsibilities

• Perform multiple operational functions as assigned, including:
  • Welding and fabrication projects
  • Pen construction and repair
  • Processing cattle
  • Feed truck operation
  • Pen cleaning and manure management
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Facility maintenance
• Operate equipment efficiently to maximize labor and fuel utilization.
• Complete assigned projects within established timelines.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and vehicles in good working conditions.
• Assist with seasonal projects and special assignments as operational needs require.
• Adapt quickly to changing priorities and workload demands.
• Support efficient cattle movement and processing activities.
• Minimize downtime through proactive maintenance and problem-solving.

Teamwork Responsibilities

• Work cooperatively with feedlot management and fellow employees to achieve operational goals.
• Communicate effectively regarding maintenance needs, cattle health concerns, safety issues, and project status.
• Assist coworkers during peak workload periods and emergencies.
• Maintain a positive attitude and professional working relationships.
• Support training and development of new employees.
• Demonstrate flexibility by performing duties outside primary assignments when needed.
• Promote a culture of respect, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Contribute to overall feedlot success through collaboration and shared responsibility.

Attendance Responsibilities

• Maintain regular and dependable attendance.
• Report to work on time and prepared to perform assigned duties.
• Be available to work weekends, holidays, and seasonal schedules as required.
• Notify supervisors promptly of absences or schedule conflicts.
• Respond to emergency maintenance or operational needs when requested.
• Demonstrate reliability and commitment to supporting feedlot operations.
• Meet company attendance expectations and scheduling requirements.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Welding and fabrication experience.
• Ability to build, repair, and maintain fences, gates, pens, and feedlot infrastructure.
• Experience operating loaders, tractors, skid steers, feed trucks, and ATVs.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Ability to safely handle livestock and work around cattle.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous feedlot, livestock, agricultural, construction, or heavy equipment experience.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred but not required.
• Experience with welding and facility maintenance.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, and operating equipment.
• Ability to work in dusty, muddy, hot, cold, and wet environmental conditions.
• Ability to safely perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods.