Beef Cattle Farmer

About the role

Katanka Pty Ltd, based in Condingup, Western Australia, is recruiting a full-time, permanent beef cattle farmer through Skill Match Recruit. The role covers breeding and production across the Willcher and Merriman properties, with an annual salary of AUD 120,000 to 140,000 plus superannuation.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, organise and oversee beef cattle breeding and production across the Willcher and Merriman properties.
• Manage herd productivity, animal health and welfare, grazing, feed and livestock water requirements.
• Coordinate daily farm operations, resources, equipment, infrastructure and safe work practices.
• Plan mating, calving, weaning and herd movements, monitoring conception rates, calf survival, growth and steer weights.
• Inspect cattle for health and nutritional issues, arrange preventative treatments and veterinary care, and implement biosecurity measures.
• Assess pasture availability and stocking rates, organise grazing rotations, supplementary feeding and fodder storage.
• Complete livestock and water checks, including three scheduled runs per week, and inspect fences, yards, pumps and troughs.
• Operate farm machinery safely, coordinate routine maintenance and obtain approval for major repairs or purchases.
• Maintain herd, health, production and expenditure records, and assist with livestock sale preparation and transport.

Required profile

• A relevant bachelor's degree or higher qualification in agriculture, animal science, livestock production or a closely related field; at least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification.
• Substantial commercial beef cattle farming experience, including breeding, calving, weaning and herd management.
• Demonstrated experience managing livestock health, grazing, feed, water and daily farm operations.
• Experience coordinating machinery, maintenance, production records and livestock movements across rural properties.
• Ability to work independently in remote outdoor conditions and respond promptly to urgent animal welfare or water-supply issues.

Required skills

• Strong practical knowledge of beef cattle breeding, husbandry, nutrition, health and welfare.
• Planning grazing and feeding programs, assessing stocking rates and managing livestock water supplies.
• Operating agricultural equipment and maintaining fences, yards and water infrastructure.
• Recordkeeping, independent decision-making and communication skills.
• Knowledge of biosecurity, livestock identification, workplace health and safety and safe chemical handling.
• Training in livestock handling, agricultural machinery, chemical safety and animal welfare is advantageous.