Cattle Processor The Cattle Processor is a key part of the cowboy crew responsible for safely and efficiently handling cattle during processing. This role focuses on low-stress cattle handling, accurate recordkeeping, and teamwork to ensure every animal entering the yard gets off to a strong start. Processors play an essential role in caring for cattle, operating equipment, and maintaining the pace and rhythm of the processing barn.
Key responsibilities include:
Handling incoming cattle calmly and confidently during processing—vaccinating, tagging, deworming, and implanting as needed.
Applying visual and electronic identification (EID) tags for traceability and accurate recordkeeping.
Operating and maintaining chutes, syringes, taggers, and related equipment according to company safety and sanitation standards.
Working alongside fellow cowboys and yard management to ensure smooth cattle flow and low-stress movement.
Monitoring animal behavior and reporting health concerns promptly to the cattle foreman or veterinarian.
Keeping work areas organized, clean, and ready for the next set of cattle.
Pitching in where needed—processing, doctoring, pen moves, or maintenance—to support the overall operation.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications include:
High School diploma or GED preferred; experience may substitute.
Prior cattle-handling experience preferred; BQA certification is a plus.
Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
Must be reliable, safety-minded, and team-oriented.
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to animal welfare.
Pay and benefits include:- Hourly pay based on experience and skillset
- Full-time position
- Bi-weekly pay with direct deposit 100% Paid Retirement through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Competitive insurance packages (Health, Dental, Vision)
- Life insurance and 401(k) plan
- Continuing Education Scholarships for full-time employees
Cactus Feeders provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
