Senior Manager, Live Production

Job Title: Sr. Live Production Manager

Department: Live Production

Location: Thompson, IA 

Reports To: Business Unit Leader

Job Type: Full-time

Salary:

Job Summary

The Senior Live Production Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of layer production operations at a designated site. This role ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production while maintaining compliance with animal welfare, biosecurity, and environmental standards. The manager will lead production teams, drive operational improvements, and collaborate with cross-functional departments to optimize flock performance and production efficiency.

Essential Job Functions

• Lead and motivate employees to achieve corporate and production goals.
• Provide direction and development to production managers, leaders, and supervisors.
• Oversee daily flock management, including feeding schedules, water availability, ventilation, and overall bird welfare.
• Maintain cleanliness and biosecurity of layer houses, including proper mortality disposal and pest control programs.
• Coordinate maintenance and repairs of layer facilities and equipment.
• Ensure optimal feed delivery and formulation by collaborating with the feed mill team.
• Monitor bird health, vaccination programs, and required testing in collaboration with veterinarians and compliance teams.
• Maintain accurate records for production, bird placement, scheduling, and personnel.
• Promote a culture of safety and ensure adherence to company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget, implementing cost-control measures.
• Oversee preventative maintenance programs to minimize equipment downtime and maximize efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, FSMA, and other regulatory guidelines.
• Manage litter handling and disposal in accordance with company policies and regulations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of poultry husbandry, animal welfare regulations, and biosecurity protocols.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and production management software.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
• Ability to work in various climate conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Business Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience), In lieu of a degree, significant field experience in live production management will be considered.
• 5-7 years of leadership experience in live production operations, including feed mill, breeder, or broiler production.
• Previous experience in large-scale animal agriculture.
• Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous poultry industry experience.
• Experience in lean manufacturing or process improvement initiatives.

Work Environment

• Primarily operates in a farm/production setting.
• Exposure to outdoor elements, livestock, and production equipment.
• Requires standing, walking, and lifting for extended periods.
• Availability for on-call duties and emergency situations.

About Us:

Versova is one of the largest egg producers in the United States, bringing together family-owned farms in Iowa, Ohio, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. With over six decades of industry experience, our team of more than 2,000 employees is dedicated to exceptional flock care, environmental stewardship, and producing safe, high-quality eggs. More than just a workplace, Versova is a team built on shared values, working together to enrich our communities and uphold the highest ethical standards.