About Company
Nestled in the breathtaking Nieuwoudtville region of the Northern Cape, Papkuilsfontein Guest Farm is not just a renowned destination for nature lovers and a working farm. For generations, our family has cultivated this land, combining sustainable agricultural practices with a deep respect for the unique Fynbos biome and local wildlife. We pride ourselves on the ethical care of our livestock, primarily sheep and cattle, which graze across our vast, natural pastures. Joining Papkuilsfontein means becoming part of a heritage dedicated to responsible land stewardship, animal welfare, and providing genuine, authentic experiences, whether through our hospitality or the quality of our farm produce.
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Job Description
Papkuilsfontein Guest Farm is seeking a dedicated and experienced Livestock Herder to join our team in Nieuwoudtville. This is a crucial role for the day-to-day welfare and management of our sheep and cattle herds across extensive and often remote grazing areas. While the physical work is hands-on, requiring your constant presence with the animals in these expansive natural landscapes, this position is classified as ‘Remote’ due to its inherent autonomy and independent operational nature. You will largely work self-sufficiently, managing your designated herd without a daily physical presence at a central office, communicating and reporting digitally with farm management.
Your primary responsibility will be ensuring the health, safety, and optimal grazing patterns of our livestock. This includes conducting daily checks, identifying and addressing animal health issues, implementing rotational grazing, and vigilant predator control. You will be expected to monitor pasture conditions, manage water points, and maintain basic fencing. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of animal behaviour, a strong work ethic, and the ability to thrive in an independent, outdoor environment, often in isolated conditions. This role demands resilience, excellent observational skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. You will be an integral part of our commitment to sustainable farming and ethical animal husbandry, contributing directly to the welfare of our herds and the health of our natural ecosystem. We are looking for someone who shares our passion for agriculture and the unique beauty of the Northern Cape.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct daily patrols and visual inspections of livestock (sheep and cattle) to assess health, well-being, and herd integrity.
- Monitor grazing patterns and implement rotational grazing strategies to optimize pasture health and animal nutrition.
- Identify, report, and provide initial care for sick or injured animals, administering basic treatments as instructed by farm management or veterinary professionals.
- Implement effective predator control measures to protect livestock, utilizing approved and humane methods.
- Maintain and repair fencing, watering points, and other livestock infrastructure within designated grazing areas.
- Assist with the movement of livestock, including herding, dipping, and vaccination efforts, as required.
- Keep accurate daily records of herd numbers, births, deaths, health observations, and pasture conditions, reporting regularly to farm management.
- Ensure adequate water supply is available for all livestock, particularly during dry seasons.
- Operate and maintain farm equipment relevant to herding activities, such as quad bikes or basic utility vehicles (if licensed).
- Adhere strictly to all animal welfare guidelines and farm safety protocols.
Required Skills
- Minimum 1 year of proven experience in livestock handling and herding, preferably with sheep and cattle.
- Strong understanding of animal health, behaviour, and basic first aid for livestock.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in remote outdoor environments.
- Excellent observational skills to detect subtle changes in animal health or behaviour.
- Physical fitness and stamina for extensive walking and working in varied weather conditions.
- Basic literacy and numeracy for record-keeping and reporting.
- Reliable and responsible with a strong commitment to animal welfare.
- Basic communication skills (verbal and written) for reporting to management.
Preferred Qualifications
- Valid South African driver's license, especially for a light vehicle or quad bike.
- Experience with basic farm equipment maintenance.
- Knowledge of local flora and fauna, and an understanding of veld management.
- Certification in animal husbandry or related agricultural fields.
- Experience with digital reporting tools or smartphone applications for farm management.
Perks & Benefits
- On-site accommodation provided.
- Contribution towards daily meals.
- Opportunity to work in a stunning natural environment.
- Training and development opportunities in sustainable farming practices.
- Contribution to medical aid and provident fund (after a probationary period).
- A supportive and family-oriented farm community.
How to Apply
If you are a dedicated individual with a passion for livestock and the outdoors, we invite you to apply. Please click on the application link below to explore current job opportunities in the agricultural sector. We encourage you to submit your detailed CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for a role such as this.
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