Research Farm Manager
Westover, MD, US, 21871
Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
Lead scientific excellence and animal care at our research farm. As the Research Farm Manager, you’ll oversee personnel, facilities, and day-to-day operations to ensure rigorous, high-quality research data. You’ll coordinate all activities from facility maintenance to protocol execution while enforcing biosecurity and animal welfare standards that minimize bird stress and protect study integrity. You’ll partner with researchers and cross-functional teams to optimize procedures, troubleshoot challenges, and drive continuous improvement in research outcomes. This role is ideal for a hands-on, detail-oriented leader who values scientific rigor, animal care, and operational excellence.
The salary range for this position is $68,000 - $102,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).
Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Coordinate all resources necessary to conduct research trials, including chicks, feed, fuel, litter, labor, live haul, processing, and yield.
- Ensure implementation of Biosecurity Programs, Perdue Poultry Care, and Environmental Policies.
- Serve as Animal Care Officer for the site.
- Direct supervision and training of all research associates working on the farm.
- Ensure a safe working environment for all associates working on the site.
- Generate and maintain all records according to specific trial protocols and follow SOPs to ensure accuracy of all research data.
- Maintain the farm in a professional appearance for customer and community tours.
Minimum Education and Experience
- High School Diploma.
- 5 years of related experience.
- Reading, writing, and math skills.
- Computer skills, including working with databases, spreadsheets, and word processing.
- State driver’s license (Class C).
- Experience in animal husbandry.
Preferred Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Poultry Science or Animal Science.
Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors
- Ability to work in all locations involved in the production of commercial poultry, including hatcheries, feed mills, production houses (chicken houses), and processing plants.
- Ability to work in environments that may be dusty and contain chicken manure, ammonia, and associated odors.
- Ability to work for periods long enough to complete assigned responsibilities in a timely and efficient manner.
- Ability to perform responsibilities over a broad range of temperatures, from winter lows to summer peak temperatures.
- Ability to wear protective clothing, including protective coveralls, protective footwear (plastic or rubber boots), hats or hairnets, earplugs, and protective eyewear, in compliance with OSHA and USDA standards.
- Ability to perform moderate physical exertion, including pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 75 pounds.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Nearest Major Market: Salisbury