Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire Career Overview
As a Poultry Farm Worker, you hold a vital role within the agricultural sector, specifically focusing on the care and management of poultry, including chickens, turkeys, and ducks. Your responsibilities contribute significantly to the production of eggs and meat, which are essential components of the food supply chain.
Key aspects of the role include:
Daily Operations: You engage in a variety of tasks that ensure the smooth functioning of the farm. This may include feeding the birds, maintaining their housing, and monitoring their health.
Animal Welfare: Ensuring the well-being of the poultry is a primary concern. You observe for signs of illness and implement appropriate measures to maintain the flock's health.
Maintenance and Safety: You are responsible for the upkeep of equipment and facilities. This includes everything from cleaning the barns to managing feed storage, which is crucial for maintaining sanitary conditions.
Collaboration: Working alongside a team, you contribute to the overall productivity of the farm. This collaboration may also involve reporting to farm managers or veterinarians regarding flock conditions.
Seasonal Variations: Your work might vary with the seasons, particularly during breeding periods or peak egg-laying seasons, requiring adaptability to changing patterns in farm activity.
Your contribution as a Poultry Farm Worker is not just about labor; it is integral to food production, sustainability, and consumer health. The care and diligence you apply in this role support the broader agricultural industry and ensure that communities have access to quality poultry products.
Poultry Farm Worker Salary in New Hampshire
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire
To become a Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire, you will benefit from specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the relevant programs you might consider:
Agricultural and Domestic Animal Services: This degree program covers fundamental principles of animal science and management, which are essential for working with poultry.
Agricultural Production Operations: This program focuses on the various techniques and processes involved in agricultural production, including poultry husbandry, crop management, and farm operations.
Animal and Livestock Husbandry and Production: This educational background provides practical knowledge about animal care, breeding, and nutrition, specifically tailored for livestock, including poultry.
Poultry Science: Pursuing a degree in Poultry Science offers specialized training in poultry management, health, and production practices, equipping you with the skills necessary for effective farm operations.
While formal education is beneficial, practical experience through internships or on-the-job training will further enhance your qualifications in this field.
Best Schools to become a Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire 2024
Ivy Tech Community College
Texas A & M University-College Station
Moorpark College
Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture
Wilkes Community College
Bakersfield College
- Attend to live farm, ranch, open range or aquacultural animals that may include cattle, sheep, swine, goats, horses and other equines, poultry, rabbits, finfish, shellfish, and bees.
- Attend to animals produced for animal products, such as meat, fur, skins, feathers, eggs, milk, and honey.
- Duties may include feeding, watering, herding, grazing, milking, castrating, branding, de-beaking, weighing, catching, and loading animals.
- May maintain records on animals; examine animals to detect diseases and injuries; assist in birth deliveries; and administer medications, vaccinations, or insecticides as appropriate.
- May clean and maintain animal housing areas.
- Includes workers who shear wool from sheep and collect eggs in hatcheries.
Poultry Farm Worker Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire
Animal Husbandry Knowledge: Understanding the basic needs and behaviors of poultry is essential. This includes feeding, breeding, and health management of chickens, turkeys, and other birds.
Attention to Detail: You must be able to observe and identify signs of illness, distress, or abnormal behavior in poultry. This skill helps in maintaining the overall health and productivity of the flock.
Physical Stamina: The role often requires manual labor, including lifting heavy feed bags, cleaning facilities, and spending long hours on your feet. Maintaining physical fitness is important.
Problem-Solving Skills: You may encounter unexpected issues such as disease outbreaks or equipment malfunctions. The ability to quickly develop effective solutions is key to keeping operations running smoothly.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with farm machinery and equipment is beneficial. This includes understanding how to operate feeding systems, water supply systems, and potentially some automated processes.
Communication Skills: You will need to effectively communicate with team members, veterinarians, and farm management. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding animal care and farm operations.
Teamwork: Collaborating with other farm workers and contributing positively to a team environment is essential for efficient farm management.
Time Management: You will often juggle multiple tasks throughout the day. Prioritizing activities effectively will help in meeting daily farm responsibilities.
Care for the Environment: Understanding sustainable practices and being committed to maintaining a clean and safe environment for both the birds and the surrounding area is important.
Record-Keeping Skills: Keeping accurate records of feeding schedules, health treatments, and production metrics is essential for effective farm management. This includes both paper and digital documentation skills.
Job Duties for Poultry Farm Workers
Examine animals to detect illness, injury, or disease, and to check physical characteristics, such as rate of weight gain.
Feed and water livestock and monitor food and water supplies.
Herd livestock to pastures for grazing or to scales, trucks, or other enclosures.
Data base user interface and query software
- BCL Landview Systems WinCrop
- Farm Works Software Trac
Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the job market for poultry farm workers is characterized by steady demand and growth potential. Here are some key insights:
Current Demand: There is an increasing demand for poultry farm workers due to a growing interest in locally sourced and sustainable agricultural practices. As more consumers seek locally produced poultry products, farms are expanding their operations and require additional labor to meet this demand.
Growth Potential: The poultry industry in New Hampshire is expected to grow as technological advancements improve efficiency and productivity in farming practices. This growth not only opens up more positions for poultry farm workers but also allows for advancement into supervisory and management roles as farms expand.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Merrimack County: This area is home to several poultry farms and agricultural businesses, providing numerous job opportunities for poultry workers.
- Rockingham County: This county features a mix of commercial farms and smaller family-owned operations, making it a prime location for those seeking employment in the poultry sector.
- Hillsborough County: With its diverse agricultural landscape, Hillsborough offers various positions related to poultry farming.
Seasonal Opportunities: Many farms may experience increased hiring during peak production seasons, creating temporary employment opportunities for those seeking seasonal work in poultry farming.
Networking and Community Involvement: Engaging in local agricultural fairs, farmer’s markets, and cooperative extensions can be beneficial for job seekers as these venues provide connections with farm owners and workers, enhancing your visibility in the job market.
Overall, the poultry farm worker job market in New Hampshire presents favorable conditions for job seekers, with diverse opportunities across different regions and potential for professional growth within the industry.
Top Related Careers to Poultry Farm Worker 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- A leading authority on agricultural practices and policies, the USDA offers valuable information on poultry farming regulations and best practices.
- Website: usda.gov
National Poultry Improvement Plan (NPIP)
- This program aims to improve the health of poultry and promote the industry. It provides resources on biosecurity measures, disease control, and testing.
- Website: poultryimprovement.org
Poultry Science Association (PSA)
- An organization dedicated to advancing the poultry industry through research and education. They provide publications, resources, and networking opportunities.
- Website: poultryscience.org
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension
- Offers research-based education and resources specific to New Hampshire, including courses on animal husbandry and poultry management.
- Website: extension.unh.edu
American Poultry Association (APA)
- A comprehensive resource for poultry breeds, shows, and breeding standards, as well as educational materials for poultry enthusiasts and workers.
- Website: americanpoultryassociation.com
New Hampshire Chicken Association
- Focused specifically on the interests of chicken keepers in New Hampshire, offering support, education, and resources for poultry workers in the state.
- Website: nhchicken.org
Poultry Production and Management Resources (Cornell University)
- Provides key insights on poultry breeding, nutrition, health management, and production techniques that can be applied in various settings.
- Website: ansci.cornell.edu
Small-Scale Poultry Production
- This resource offers guidance on raising poultry sustainably on smaller farms or backyards, including information on care, management, and safety.
- Website: smallscale poultry.org
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Poultry Farms
- The IPM program at the University of Maine provides strategies for pest management that are effective and environmentally friendly for poultry operations.
- Website: umaine.edu/ipm
National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)
- Offers statistics and data on poultry production and trends, which can help you understand the industry better and make informed decisions.
- Website: nass.usda.gov
These resources provide a solid foundation for your knowledge and growth as a poultry farm worker in New Hampshire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire
What does a Poultry Farm Worker do?
As a Poultry Farm Worker, you are responsible for various tasks related to the care and management of poultry, including feeding, watering, cleaning, and monitoring the health of the birds. You may also assist with record-keeping and egg collection or processing.What qualifications do I need to become a Poultry Farm Worker?
Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Previous experience in farming or animal husbandry can be beneficial, but on-the-job training is often provided. You may also need to demonstrate physical stamina and the ability to work in various weather conditions.Is prior experience necessary for this role?
While prior experience in poultry farming or animal care is helpful, it is not always required. Many employers provide training for entry-level positions, focusing on essential farm operations and safety practices.What skills are essential for a Poultry Farm Worker?
Important skills include:- Attention to Detail: To monitor bird health and ensure proper feeding and care.
- Physical Stamina: The ability to perform manual tasks for long periods.
- Time Management: Efficiently managing your daily tasks and responsibilities.
- Basic Animal Husbandry Knowledge: Understanding poultry behavior and care requirements.
What is the typical work schedule for a Poultry Farm Worker?
Work schedules can vary widely. Some farms operate on a traditional Monday to Friday schedule, while others require weekend and holiday shifts. Early mornings and some long hours may be common due to the nature of farm work.What are the working conditions like?
Working conditions can be physically demanding and may involve exposure to various weather elements. You will often be required to work inside barns or coops, which can be noisy and require the management of strong odors associated with livestock farming.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, there are potential advancement opportunities. With experience, you may move into supervisory roles or specialized areas such as flock management, biosecurity, or farm administration.What is the average salary for a Poultry Farm Worker in New Hampshire?
The average salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific farm. As of recent data, you can expect to earn around $30,000 to $40,000 per year, with entry-level positions typically starting lower.What are the job prospects for Poultry Farm Workers in New Hampshire?
Job prospects are generally stable due to the ongoing demand for poultry products. The industry may experience growth with increasing consumer demand for poultry meat and eggs.Do Poultry Farm Workers require any certifications?
Certifications are not always necessary, but certain farms may prefer or require handlers to have knowledge of animal welfare and safety regulations. Additionally, certifications in pesticide application and food safety may be beneficial or required.Can I pursue further education related to this field?
Yes, you may choose to pursue further education in animal science, agricultural science, or agribusiness. Degrees and certifications can enhance your knowledge and potentially lead to higher-level positions within the industry.