Grazing Specialist

Introduction: As the Grazing Specialist for Hopson Cattle on our 400-acre lease in Nacogdoches, Texas, your role is essential in implementing a successful high-intensity grazing program. Your responsibilities will include daily livestock moves through a cell grazing system, managing livestock nutritional needs, infrastructure planning, data management, and strategic recommendations to optimize stock density. Additionally, you will engage in some mowing, general farm labor, and problem-solving. Compensation includes a base salary, housing, utilities, internet, cellphone, and a farm truck, with bonuses based on equipment and infrastructure maintenance and accurate data management. There is also an opportunity to expand cell grazing to additional properties and leases, contributing to the growth of our operation.

Key Responsibilities:

1. High-Intensity Grazing Program Implementation:
• Execute daily livestock moves through the cell grazing system, ensuring efficient pasture utilization and land regeneration.
• Monitor grazing patterns and adjust schedules as necessary to optimize forage availability and animal health.
2. Stockmanship Skills:
• Exhibit excellent stockmanship skills, ensuring the welfare and proper handling of livestock.
• Observe and address any behavioral or health issues promptly.
3. Livestock Nutritional Needs:
• Manage and monitor the nutritional requirements of the livestock.
• Work with veterinarians and nutritionists to create and implement feeding programs and administer supplements.
4. Infrastructure Planning and Execution:
• Develop and implement an infrastructure plan to support the grazing program, including fences, water systems, and handling facilities.
• Ensure all infrastructure is maintained and repaired as needed to support daily operations.
5. Data Management and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for the grazing program, including grazing schedules, livestock health, forage availability, and drought management plans.
• Analyze data to make strategic recommendations for optimizing stock density and improving program efficiency.
6. Mowing and General Farm Labor:
• Occasionally, perform mowing and other general farm labor tasks as needed.
• Assist with seasonal projects and other duties as assigned.
7. Problem-Solving:
• Identify and address any issues or challenges that arise, including equipment malfunctions, infrastructure problems, and livestock health concerns.
• Report and collaborate with management to resolve issues promptly and efficiently.
8. Expansion Opportunities:
• Explore and develop opportunities to expand cell grazing practices to additional properties and leases.
• Coordinate with management to assess feasibility, plan infrastructure, and implement cell grazing systems on new sites.
 

Performance Expectations:

• Professionalism and Dedication: Carry out all responsibilities with a high level of professionalism, integrity, and commitment.
• Organizational Skills: Demonstrate strong organizational skills in managing time and prioritizing tasks.
• Attention to Detail: Exhibit attention to detail in data management, infrastructure maintenance, and livestock care.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and stakeholders to ensure clear understanding and coordination.
• Safety Expectations: Maintain a focus on safety in all tasks, using common sense and best practices to ensure a secure working environment.
• Continuous Improvement: Seek opportunities for learning and skill development to enhance job performance and contribute to the program’s success.
Compensation and Benefits:

• Base Salary: Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
• Housing and Utilities: Provided housing, utilities, internet, and cellphone.
• Farm Truck: Use of a farm truck for job-related tasks.
• Bonuses: Eligibility for performance-based bonuses, determined by:
• Maintaining equipment and infrastructure without damage.
• Keeping accurate and up-to-date grazing and drought data.
Application Process: Interested candidates should send their applications to hopsoncattle@gmail.com. Applications will be accepted until June 30th. The selection process will include phone screens followed by a working interview.

Conclusion: As a Grazing Specialist for Hopson Cattle, your expertise and dedication are critical to the success of our high-intensity grazing program. By effectively managing livestock movements, nutritional needs, infrastructure, and data, you will contribute to the sustainability and productivity of our operation. Your proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement will help us achieve our goals and maintain our reputation for excellence in grazing management. Additionally, your role in expanding cell grazing to other properties will support the growth and future success of our ranching enterprise. The primary species managed will be cattle, with the potential to add small ruminants to diversify and enhance our grazing program.

Hopson Cattle: A Legacy of Integrity and Sustainability

Hopson Cattle, located in Nacogdoches, Texas, is a family-owned and operated ranch dedicated to raising high-quality commercial cow-calf pairs, replacement females, and leasing bulls. Founded in 2009 with 14 head of cattle purchased from my grandfather, our ranch is built on hard work, integrity, and a deep passion for the cattle industry. Our vision is to be the leading cow-calf producer in Nacogdoches County, promoting sustainable ranching practices and contributing to the local economy. Our mission is to raise high-quality cattle, foster agricultural values and education, and ensure the longevity and prosperity of the cattle industry in East Texas. We operate a 450-head cow/calf operation on 12 leases covering around 2,000 acres. Inspired by the Ranching for Profit School and supported by the Executive Link board, we’ve transitioned from a hobbyist mindset to a professional business approach, focusing on infrastructure upgrades for growth and efficiency. With over 30 years of combined experience, my wife and I are committed to regenerative agriculture practices and building strong relationships with buyers through transparency, excellent customer service, and consistent product quality. Located in the Pineywoods of East Texas, we strive to be good stewards of both the land and our animals, aiming to pass the ranch down to future generations.