Agriculture & Food

Pig Farmer

SOC 11-9013.00 · ESCO 1311 · OSCA 152934

Role snapshot

Overview

Manages pigs from farrowing through to market weight, controlling feed programs, housing conditions, and biosecurity measures. Monitors animal welfare closely in intensive or free-range systems and coordinates with processors and veterinarians. This role requires hands-on animal care, farm management, and business acumen.

Contributes to the food supply chain by raising healthy pigs, ensuring sustainable practices, and maintaining high animal welfare standards, which directly impacts public health and economic stability in rural communities.

On the job

Monitor pig health, administer treatments, and implement preventative care programs
Manage feeding schedules, nutrition plans, and ensure access to clean water
Maintain and clean housing facilities, ensuring appropriate ventilation and environmental conditions
Implement and enforce biosecurity protocols to prevent disease outbreaks
Keep detailed records of breeding, farrowing, growth rates, and sales

Tools & technology

Feed mixers and dispensersPressure washersVeterinary supplies (syringes, medications)Farm management softwareLivestock trailersAutomated climate control systems

Average salary

$55K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$38K Bottom 10%

$75K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational certificate or diploma in agriculture or animal science, or a bachelor's degree in a related field. Practical experience is highly valued.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Farm Manager (Large Scale)

CURRENT ROLE

Pig Farmer

Agriculture & Food

ADJACENT MOVES

Agricultural Consultant

Livestock Buyer

Farm Worker

Livestock Attendant

Agricultural Intern

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

enterprising · ERC

Individuals who thrive in hands-on environments, enjoy managing operations, and prefer structured tasks with clear protocols are well-suited for this role. It combines practical work with business oversight and meticulous record-keeping.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Demonstrates high responsibility, organization, and discipline in managing farm operations and animal welfare.

Practical

Prefers hands-on work with animals and equipment, focusing on tangible results and efficient methods.

Independent

Comfortable working autonomously and making decisions, often with minimal direct supervision.

Calm under pressure

Handles unexpected challenges, such as animal health emergencies or equipment breakdowns, with resilience.

Organized

Maintains meticulous records of animal health, breeding, and finances to ensure efficient farm management.

Best for

Individuals who are passionate about animal care and enjoy the challenges of farm management.
Those who prefer a blend of practical, hands-on work with administrative and planning responsibilities.
People seeking a career with a direct connection to food production and rural lifestyle.

Watch out for

The work involves regular weekend and early morning hours, requiring significant commitment.
Physical demands can be high, and exposure to outdoor elements and farm environments is constant.