Hatchery Manager

Hatchery Manager

At Pilgrim's, safety is a condition, which means the safety of our team members comes first - always. Position Overview The Hatchery Manager is responsible for leading all hatchery operations to ensure the production of high-quality chicks, achieving the highest possible hatch rates, and maintaining cost-efficient performance. This role oversees hatchery staff, contract producers, and technical advisors while ensuring compliance with animal welfare, safety, and environmental regulations. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong operational expertise and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Direct all hatchery operations to achieve optimal chick quality and maximum hatch rates at the lowest possible cost.
• Ensure all hatchery personnel, technical advisors, and contract producers follow Animal Welfare guidelines.
• Plan and manage hatchery production, spending, and capital improvement projects.
• Prepare and manage the annual hatchery budget.
• Control operational costs, including labor, repairs, supplies, and vaccines.
• Prepare monthly performance reports and graphs for hatchery metrics.
• Report egg fertility and hatch residue results to the breeder department as needed.
• Ensure compliance with Company, OSHA, D.O.T., and environmental regulations.
• Oversee all quality assurance checks, including chick quality, vaccination accuracy, equipment inspections, and maintenance work.
• Consult with the company veterinarian before implementing operational changes.
• Manage staffing needs: prepare schedules, approve vacation requests, and hire new employees as needed.

What You'll Need

• Education: Typically requires an Associates Degree or completion of Vocational/Technical specialty certification/licensure program in a related field. Bachelors degree in related field is preferred.
• Experience: Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of directly related experience. Directly related work experience will be accepted on a year-for-year basis in lieu of the educational requirement.
• Skills: Effective communication both orally and in writing, capable of independent decision making, strong organizational skills and acute attention to detail, SAP experience preferred, Experience with Microsoft Office Programs. Strong commitment to safety, animal welfare, and regulatory compliance.
• MUST BE ABLE TO work weekends and evenings as needed.

Why Work for Pilgrim's?

• Benefits: Vision, Medical, and Dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment;
• Paid Time Off: Sick leave, vacation, company observed holidays or, any other statutorily required paid leave;
• 401(k): company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule;
• Base salary range of $79,417 - $96,491 based on experience;
• Career Development: Our company is dedicated to supporting professional growth by offering continuous learning opportunities and a focus on career growth through various learning and development programs;
• Better Futures

EOE, including disability/vets