# Caretakers at the core: exploring worker perceptions of job satisfaction, training, cattlecare, and workplace community on feedyards in the United States

## TL;DR

This study explores how U.S. feedlot workers feel about their jobs, training, cattle care, and workplace community, highlighting ways to improve both worker well-being and animal welfare.

## Contribution

The study provides novel insights into feedlot workers' perspectives, identifying factors influencing job satisfaction and animal care in the cattle feeding industry.

## Key findings

- Feedlot workers reported high job satisfaction and pride in their roles related to cattle care.
- Key themes included animal health, continuous improvement, communication, and workplace relationships.
- Language and age were found to influence employee experiences and perceptions in feedlots.

## Abstract

The U.S. cattle feeding sector employs an important proportion of the agricultural workforce and is critical for meeting consumer expectations regarding how beef cattle are raised and cared for. Although extensive research has examined animal health, productivity, and performance in feedlots, the attitudes and perspectives of feedlot employees, who provide essential daily cattle care, have received limited attention. This study aimed to explore feedlot workers’ attitudes regarding job satisfaction, training, animal care, and workplace community using a mixed-methods approach. Feedlot workers (n = 329) from 29 feedlots nationwide participated in 95 focus group or interview discussions and completed a written survey. Survey responses indicated high levels of job satisfaction and pride in employees’ roles related to cattle care and welfare. Analysis revealed that employee agreement with key job satisfaction and cattle care statements was often associated with preferred language and age. Thematic analysis of focus group transcripts identified 13 primary themes: (1) Animal Health and Veterinary Care, (2) Stockmanship and Stewardship, (3) Continuous Improvement, (4) External Relations, (5) Safety, (6) Internal Communication, (7) Personal Backgrounds and Experiences, (8) Physical Environment, (9) Opportunities for Good Welfare and Positive Experiences, (10) Purpose and Role in Cattle Feeding, (11) Relationships, (12) Resources, and (13) Finance. Employees expressed a strong commitment to animal welfare and highlighted the importance of continuous improvement through ongoing training and hands-on learning opportunities. However, they also identified persistent challenges, including communication barriers, labor availability, equipment functionality, and extreme environmental conditions. Results from the logistic regression analysis of demographic factors suggest that language and age may influence employee experiences and perceptions within the feedyard environment. Addressing these challenges through targeted training improvements and supportive resources could significantly enhance both employee well-being and animal welfare. This research provides critical insights for incorporating workforce perspectives into comprehensive sustainability initiatives within the beef cattle industry.

This study explores the perspectives of feedlot workers on their roles, focusing on job satisfaction, training, animal welfare, and work community. It provides valuable insights into the challenges they face and highlights opportunities to improve both worker well-being and cattle care within the feedlot industry.