What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Harvest Technician position at Vermont Livestock Slaughter & Processing?
About Vermont Livestock Slaughter & Processing
Vermont Livestock Slaughter & Processing (VLSP) is a small family-owned business, and our mission is to provide quality service to the livestock industry. As one of the few USDA-inspected facilities in Vermont, we are equipped to slaughter and process beef, lamb, and pork for clients from both in and out of state. We cater to a wide range of clients from private individuals with a few head each year, to commercial producers who require multiple animals processed with regularity. We are a critical part of the forward-thinking farming and food community in Vermont, and across the New England landscape, that supports and celebrates farmers who raise livestock locally through humane practices and pasture-based systems.
About the Role
We're hiring an Animal Harvest Technician to join our harvest line team. This is a specialized, skilled position requiring focus, precision, and a genuine commitment to both animal welfare and food safety. Training is provided — what matters most is reliability, a strong work ethic, and the ability to follow detailed procedures.
What You'll Do
- Perform assigned harvest line tasks in accordance with USDA regulations and company protocols
- Operate specialized harvest equipment following established procedures
- Monitor animal condition and welfare throughout the harvest process
- Maintain strict sanitation and safety standards in your work area
- Document harvest operations and maintain required records accurately
- Assist with line setup and sanitation between shifts
- Respond promptly to equipment alerts and malfunctions
- Support production cutting, packaging, and shipping on non-harvest days
- Participate in daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning tasks
What We're Looking For
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
- Exceptional attention to detail and consistency
- Physical stamina for standing and repetitive tasks during 8 hour shifts
- Ability to follow detailed procedures and work within a coordinated team
- Reliable and punctual — this is a critical production role
Preferred:
- Previous harvest or meat processing experience
- Food safety certification
- Knowledge of USDA regulations
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
Physical Requirements
- Stand for entire 8 hour shifts
- Lift up to 50 lbs regularly
- Work in wet/slippery conditions
- Tolerate cold temperatures throughout the shift
Schedule & Compensation
- Pay: $20–$24/hr based on experience and skill development
- Hours: Monday–Friday, early morning shifts (typically 5:00 AM–1:00 PM)
- Type: Full-time, non-exempt
- Occasional weekend work during peak seasons
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Matched retirement plan
- Paid vacation
- Paid holidays
- Monthly meat box
Why Work at VLSP?
Our harvest team does essential, skilled work that most people never see. At VLSP, we take animal welfare and food safety seriously, and we invest in training people who want to grow in the trade. If you're dependable and ready to learn, we'll teach you the rest.
Vermont Livestock Slaughter & Processing is an equal opportunity employer.
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Ability to Commute:
- Ferrisburgh, VT 05456 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $24