Live Operations Utility

Farmer Focus
Farmer Focus

Operations

Harrisonburg, VA, USA

Posted on Jul 4, 2026

Job Title: Live Operations Utility
Department: Live Operations
Reports To: Director of Live Operations
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Live Shed
Work Arrangement: On-site
Shift / Schedule: First Shift
Travel Requirements:
Employment Type: Full-time

Role Overview / Purpose and Scope

The Live Operations Utility Team Member is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation of live haul equipment and work areas within the Live Shed. This position plays a critical role in ensuring baskets, cages, fans, and related equipment are cleaned, pressure washed and prepared for safe and efficient operation. The ideal candidate must be comfortable working in a physically demanding environment that includes exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, moisture, noise, and live poultry operations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Clean and wash live haul baskets as they arrive for repair or maintenance.
  • Pressure wash baskets, cages, fans, trailers, and other live operations equipment as assigned.
  • Remove debris, feathers, dirt, and other contaminants from equipment and work areas.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of designated workspaces.
  • Assist maintenance and live operations teams with equipment preparation and sanitation activities.
  • Inspect baskets and cages for visible damage and communicate repair needs to supervisors.
  • Follow all company safety procedures, animal welfare standards, and biosecurity requirements.
  • Properly operate pressure washers and other cleaning equipment.
  • Ensure equipment is cleaned thoroughly and ready for operational use.
  • Support additional Live Operations duties as assigned by leadership.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, and lift throughout the shift.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to work around moving equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

This position requires working in:

  • Wet and humid conditions.
  • Dusty and dirty environments.
  • Hot, cold, and rainy weather conditions.
  • Outdoor and partially enclosed work areas.
  • Areas with high noise levels.
  • Environments involving live poultry operations.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED preferred but not required.
  • Previous industrial cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, or poultry experience preferred.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong work ethic and attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow instructions, safety procedures, and company policies.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, overtime, and weekends as needed.

New team members must be able to pass a drug, alcohol and background screening post-offer prior to the start of their employment. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that verification of employment eligibility is documented for all new employees by the end of their third day of work.

Compensation Range: $24.00 - $26.00 per hour

Additional Compensation: Overtime eligibility

Benefits: Farmer Focus offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support team members’ health, financial well-being, and professional growth. Available offerings may include weekly payroll, paid time off and sick leave, semi-subsidized medical coverage, dental and vision plan options, a 401(k) plan with company match up to 4%, education reimbursement opportunities, employee assistance programs (EAP), and internal learning, development, and career growth programs.

All benefits, programs, and offerings are subject to eligibility requirements, plan terms, and company policies, and may be changed, amended, or discontinued by Farmer Focus at any time.

About Farmer Focus

Farmer Focus exists to promote and protect generational family farms by shifting farm-level decision-making and chicken ownership back to farmers and empowering them to farm the way they know is best. We are committed to producing 100% organic and humanely raised chicken that is better for people, the planet, and animals. Our culture is grounded in servant leadership and guided by our CARES values: Community, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, and Stewardship. Our top priorities are people, safety, and quality. At Farmer Focus, our vision is to disrupt the status quo by creating bold opportunities for people who demand more and deserve better.

EOE, including disability/vets.