Hatchery Lead

Job Description Summary:

The Hatchery Lead supports the Hatchery Manager and Hatchery Supervisor in overseeing daily hatchery operations and ensuring compliance with company policies, biosecurity, safety, and animal welfare standards. This role is responsible for maintaining optimal poultry health, equipment functionality, accurate data reporting, and operational efficiency in alignment with hatchery production goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in supervising daily activities of hatchery employees as required

• Gain proficiency in controller and ventilation systems; adjust ventilation and heat according to incubation guidelines and management direction

• Develop working knowledge of hatchers and incubators, and troubleshoot issues as needed

• Support implementation of poultry practices as outlined in Hatchery SOPs and company communications

• Ensure hatchery equipment is properly maintained and operational

• Implement power and emergency procedures when required

• Maintain hatchery production schedules by overseeing cleaning, disinfecting, and equipment setup for placements

• Maintain hatchery premises, buildings, and equipment in a clean, safe, and orderly condition at all times

• Monitor and troubleshoot hatchers, incubators, macerators, chiller, air compressors, dump tank, and related systems

• Assist in developing employee work schedules

• Adhere to all Safety, Biosecurity, and Animal Welfare programs in collaboration with Veterinary Services and EHS Departments

• Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures

• Assist in training and onboarding new team members

• Provide direction to hourly employees in accordance with established guidelines (no disciplinary authority)

• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Hatchery Manager or Hatchery Supervisor

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Strong understanding of hatchery operations

• Ability to lead hatchery operations in the absence of the Hatchery Manager and/or Hatchery Supervisor

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications

• Ability to accurately record and maintain hatchery data

• Strong troubleshooting skills related to hatchery equipment

• Effective communication skills across all levels of the organization

• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and perform high-level operational tasks

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 6 hours)

• Lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds

• Frequent bending, stooping, gripping, grasping, and twisting

• Ability to work with cleaning chemicals, detergents, and disinfectants

• Tolerance for prolonged exposure to dry, dusty environments

Work Environment

• Routinely scheduled up to 6 days per week, including weekends and holidays

• Regular interaction with live poultry

• Exposure to hatchery-related odors

• Climate exposure (hot and cold conditions)

• Work in damp, wet, and loud environments

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.