General Farm Worker
Minnema Farms Ltd. — Glencoe, Ontario
Company Overview
Minnema Farms Ltd. is a diversified family-owned agricultural operation located in Glencoe, Ontario, in the heart of Middlesex County’s productive farming region. Situated at 3511 Knapdale Drive, our farm has been a cornerstone of the local agricultural community for generations, producing poultry, livestock, and specialty crops that contribute to Ontario’s vibrant food sector.
We operate a modern, diversified farming enterprise that combines traditional animal husbandry values with contemporary production standards. Our commitment to animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and sustainable farming practices has earned us a respected reputation among producers in the Glencoe–London corridor.
At Minnema Farms Ltd., we believe that our people are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to providing a safe, supportive workplace where employees can develop valuable skills in poultry and livestock production, animal care, and farm management. Whether you are new to agriculture or an experienced farmhand, we welcome your contribution to our farm’s continued success.
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Job Description
Minnema Farms Ltd. is seeking a dedicated and hardworking General Farm Worker to join our poultry and livestock production team in Glencoe, Ontario. This is a full-time permanent position offering $18.00 per hour with comprehensive training provided for candidates new to farming.
As a General Farm Worker, you will be responsible for the daily care and management of our poultry and livestock herds. Your duties will include feeding and watering animals, cleaning and disinfecting barns and pens, monitoring animal health, assisting with breeding and hatching activities, and maintaining strict bio-security protocols. You will work closely with experienced farm staff who will mentor you in proper animal handling techniques, welfare standards, and farm safety procedures.
This role is physically demanding but deeply rewarding for individuals who enjoy working with animals and being outdoors. Whether you grew up on a farm or are completely new to agriculture, we welcome your application if you bring a strong work ethic, reliability, and a genuine interest in animal care.
Key Responsibilities
- Feed and tend poultry and livestock according to established nutritional programs and feeding schedules
- Monitor water supply systems and ensure animals have continuous access to fresh, clean water
- Sort and handle animals safely using low-stress handling techniques for movement between pens and barns
- Clean, disinfect, and maintain barns, pens, stalls, and feeding areas to ensure hygienic conditions
- Monitor animal health and behaviour, identifying sick or injured animals and reporting concerns to the farm supervisor
- Assist with breeding activities including heat detection and artificial insemination preparation for livestock
- Assist with farrowing and hatching operations, providing care for animals during birth and ensuring newborns are safe and warm
- Process young animals including ear tagging, navel dipping, and initial feeding under supervision
- Wean piglets and transition poultry to appropriate facilities at appropriate ages
- Administer medications, vaccines, and supplements as directed by the farm supervisor or veterinarian
- Operate and maintain farm machinery including feed mixers, pressure washers, and ventilation systems
- Monitor and adjust barn environmental controls including temperature, ventilation, and humidity levels
- Follow strict bio-security protocols including proper use of protective clothing and sanitation procedures
- Complete daily care logs, feeding records, mortality records, and animal health documentation
Qualifications & Skills
Required
- No formal education required — will train suitable candidates
- Physical ability to perform demanding tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for long periods, and working in warm, humid barn environments
- Comfort working in an indoor barn setting with exposure to animal waste, dust, and strong odours
- Basic English communication skills to understand safety instructions, follow protocols, and complete records
- Ability to work early mornings and occasional weekends as required by the production schedule
- Legal eligibility to work in Canada
Preferred
- Previous experience working with poultry, swine, cattle, or other livestock in a farm or barn setting
- Knowledge of poultry and livestock production cycles including breeding, gestation, farrowing, and finishing phases
- Familiarity with farm machinery operation and basic mechanical maintenance
- Experience with pressure washing, disinfecting, and barn sanitation procedures
- First Aid and CPR certification
- Class G driver’s license
Personal Attributes
- Compassionate and patient attitude toward animals with commitment to high welfare standards
- Strong work ethic and punctuality — animals require daily care without exception
- Attention to detail in observing animal behaviour, feed intake, and health indicators
- Ability to work independently and as part of a close-knit team in a barn environment
- Commitment to bio-security and sanitation protocols to prevent disease outbreaks
- Willingness to work flexible hours including early mornings, weekends, and emergency call-ins during farrowing and hatching season
🛡️ Bio-Security & Safety First
Poultry and livestock farming requires strict adherence to bio-security protocols to protect animal health and prevent disease. At Minnema Farms Ltd., all workers must:
- Follow proper sanitation procedures when entering and leaving barn facilities
- Wear designated farm clothing and footwear provided by the employer
- Refrain from contact with other poultry or livestock outside of work hours
- Report any illness or exposure to foreign animal diseases immediately
- Participate in regular bio-security training and facility audits
These measures protect our animals, our workers, and the broader Canadian agricultural industry.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage of $18.00 with performance-based increases
- Permanent full-time employment with year-round stability
- Overtime compensation at 1.5x regular rate for hours exceeding 44 per week
- Statutory holiday pay and vacation entitlement per Ontario Employment Standards
- Comprehensive on-the-job training in animal care, barn operations, and bio-security
- Safe work environment with provided personal protective equipment (PPE) and farm clothing
- Opportunity for career progression to specialized livestock worker or supervisory roles
- Workers’ compensation coverage through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)
- Employment Insurance (EI) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions
- Potential for housing assistance for workers relocating to the Glencoe area
Job Location
Primary Location: Minnema Farms Ltd., 3511 Knapdale Drive, Glencoe, Ontario, Canada (N0L 1M0)
Glencoe is a small rural community located in Middlesex County, Ontario, approximately 25 kilometres southwest of London. The area is surrounded by productive farmland and is part of Ontario’s vibrant agricultural heartland, with strong traditions in poultry farming, dairy operations, hog production, and crop cultivation.
The region offers a peaceful rural lifestyle with affordable housing, close-knit communities, and easy access to larger centres such as London, Strathroy, and Chatham. Glencoe is well-connected by Highway 22 and Highway 80, providing convenient access to essential services and amenities.
Work Environment: Indoor barn facilities with climate control, ventilation, and automated feeding systems. Exposure to animal waste, dust, ammonia, and strong odours. Physical proximity to poultry and livestock of various sizes. Some tasks require working in confined spaces and at heights (feed bins). Outdoor work may be required for pasture management and equipment maintenance.
Start Your Career in Ontario Agriculture
Join Minnema Farms Ltd. in Glencoe, ON. No experience required — we provide full training in modern poultry and livestock farming.
Apply Now
📧 minnemafarmsltd2@outlook.com
We review all applications within 48 hours
Summary
The General Farm Worker position at Minnema Farms Ltd. offers a genuine entry point into Canada’s vital agricultural industry. At $18.00 per hour, this full-time permanent role provides fair compensation for essential work that includes feeding, tending, cleaning, and caring for poultry and livestock in Glencoe, Ontario.
With no formal education or experience requirements, this position is accessible to anyone with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Minnema Farms Ltd. provides comprehensive training in animal husbandry, barn sanitation, bio-security protocols, and equipment operation, making this an ideal opportunity for career changers, new Canadians, or young workers seeking their first job in agriculture.
Career progression is possible with experience — many general farm workers advance to specialized roles such as breeding technician, farrowing attendant, herd health monitor, or farm supervisor. If you are physically fit, reliable, and committed to animal welfare, we encourage you to apply today.
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