Starting Pigs Specialist

Join Prestage as a Starting Pigs Specialist in Ames, Iowa, where you'll manage the critical early stages of swine production and shape the health and performance of thousands of young animals. This is a full-time, hands-on position for someone who combines technical expertise in pig husbandry with genuine care for animal welfare and operational excellence.

Position Summary

As a Starting Pigs Specialist at Prestage, you'll oversee the nursery phase of swine production—one of the most pivotal periods in a pig's development. Your role bridges veterinary care, nutrition, facility management, and team leadership, ensuring young pigs thrive while maintaining the health and safety standards Prestage demands. You'll work closely with production teams, nutritionists, and veterinarians to optimize growth rates, minimize disease pressure, and uphold biosecurity protocols across your assigned facilities.

Responsibilities

• Monitor pig health daily, identifying illness or injury early and coordinating with veterinary staff on treatment protocols
• Oversee feed management, water systems, and environmental conditions (temperature, ventilation, pen density) to support optimal growth
• Maintain detailed production records including mortality rates, performance metrics, and treatment logs
• Implement and enforce biosecurity procedures to prevent disease transmission within and between facilities
• Train, supervise, and mentor farm staff on proper handling, pen maintenance, and animal care techniques
• Collaborate with genetics, nutrition, and operations teams to address production challenges and implement improvements
• Conduct routine facility inspections and coordinate repairs or upgrades as needed

What You Bring

• Experience in swine production, nursery management, or equivalent agricultural animal husbandry
• Strong knowledge of pig health, behavior, nutrition, and disease prevention
• Ability to work independently and lead a team in a fast-paced farm environment
• Excellent record-keeping and attention to detail in data collection and reporting
• Physical ability to perform manual tasks, lift up to 50 lbs regularly, and work in varying weather conditions
• Problem-solving mindset and willingness to adopt new techniques and technologies
• A degree in animal science, agriculture, or veterinary science is valued; relevant experience can substitute

More About Prestage

Prestage is a leader in vertically integrated swine production, known for innovation, animal welfare, and sustainable farming practices. Working here means contributing to a company that invests in its people, supports continuous learning, and operates with integrity across every level of production.

Next Steps

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.