If you’re passionate about working with animals and seeking hands-on experience on farms and ranches, a livestock handler career in the United States may be a perfect fit. As the demand for agricultural labor continues to grow, many U.S. employers are offering visa sponsorship for qualified foreign workers under the H-2A Agricultural Visa Program.
Details:
- Country: United States
- Job Title: Livestock Handler
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes (typically via H-2A Visa)
- Job Type: Full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles available
- Industries: Farming, ranching, poultry, meat processing
Requirements:
In the United States, specific qualifications and abilities are typically necessary to become a livestock handler:
- Animal Experience: Employers also prioritize candidates who have experience with livestock.
- Physical stamina is a requirement for cattle handling, which is frequently physically demanding. Handlers must be situated in a manner that allows them to elevate substantial objects.
- Basic Animal Knowledge: Livestock handlers must possess the ability to feed, hydrate, and monitor the behavior and requirements of a variety of animal breeds.
- Communication Skills: It may require time to establish a direct relationship with farmers, veterinarians, or other animal care professionals.
- Visa Sponsorship Eligibility: Employers may sponsor foreign nationals through visa programs like the H-2A visa, which is utilized to provide agricultural labor.
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Responsibilities:
Depending on the type of livestock and employer needs, duties typically include:
- Feeding & Watering: Ensure livestock has constant access to food and water
- Animal Health Checks: Monitor behavior and report signs of illness or injury
- Herding & Transport: Move animals between pens, pastures, barns, or trailers
- Cleaning & Maintenance: Clean stalls, barns, and feeding areas to maintain hygiene
- Breeding & Calving Assistance: Assist during birthing or mating cycles when required
- Equipment Operation: Use tools or machinery for feeding, cleaning, or transporting
Types of Livestock Handler Jobs:
| Job Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Cattle Handler | Manage feeding, herding, calving, and sometimes milking (beef or dairy farms) |
| Sheep Handler | Handle grazing, shearing, breeding, and flock health management |
| Poultry Handler | Care for chickens, ducks, or turkeys in feeding, cleaning, and egg/livestock handling |
| Swine Handler | Raise pigs for pork production, monitor health, and manage breeding facilities |
| Farm Hand (Mixed) | Work with multiple animals and general farm support tasks |
Salary Expectations:
| Pay Structure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Salary | $28,000 – $35,000 USD (depending on role/region) |
| Hourly Wage | $12 – $16 USD (entry-level); higher for skilled roles |
| Increases Possible | During peak seasons (birthing, harvest, or calving) or with overtime hours |
Benefits:
- Legal Work Authorization – Visa sponsorship ensures you can work legally in the USA.
- Competitive Pay – Earn a steady income with potential for overtime and bonuses.
- Housing Support – Many employers provide or assist with affordable accommodation.
- Hands-On Experience – Gain valuable skills working directly with animals and farm operations.
- Career Opportunities – Potential to advance within the agricultural or livestock industry.
- Cultural Exposure – Experience living and working in the diverse environment of the USA.
- Employee Benefits – Access to health insurance, paid leave, and other workplace perks.
Where to Find Livestock Handler Jobs?
To improve your chances, focus on U.S. agricultural employers that regularly hire foreign labor:
Recommended Job Boards
- AgCareers.com – Specialized in agriculture jobs
- Indeed.com – Use search terms like “livestock handler H-2A visa”
- SeasonalJobs.dol.gov – Official Department of Labor site for temporary jobs
- ZipRecruiter – Broad listings with filters for visa sponsorship
How to Apply for Livestock Handler Jobs in USA with Visa for Foreigners 2025?
- Update Your Resume
Highlight any experience with livestock, farm machinery, or rural labor. Certifications in animal care or farm equipment handling are a plus. - Search for Sponsor-Friendly Jobs
Look specifically for jobs that mention “H-2A Visa Sponsorship” or “foreign agricultural workers welcome”. - Apply to the Employer
Submit your resume and any requested documentation. Include references if possible. - Interview Process
Employers may conduct phone or video interviews. Be ready to discuss your experience and readiness to relocate. - Visa Processing
Once hired, your employer will file for an H-2A visa on your behalf. You’ll need:- A valid passport
- To attend a U.S. embassy interview in your country
- Complete any additional paperwork required by U.S. immigration
About the H-2A Visa:
The H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visa allows U.S. employers to hire seasonal foreign workers when there’s a shortage of domestic labor. Key details:
- Duration: Up to 10 months (can be extended to 3 years total)
- Requirements: Valid job offer, proof of housing, and a U.S. employer as sponsor
- Housing & Transportation: Typically provided by employer
- No Education Requirement: Just proof of ability to perform agricultural labor
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long can I work in the USA on an H-2A visa?
Typically, the visa is valid for up to 1 year with the possibility of extensions, but total stay is usually limited to 3 years.
Do employers provide accommodation for livestock handlers on H-2A visas?
Yes, H-2A employers are required to provide free housing that meets safety and health standards for the duration of employment.
Can foreigners get livestock handler jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship?
Yes, but sponsorship is usually limited to specific visa categories, such as H-2A (Temporary Agricultural Worker) visas for seasonal farm labor, which may include livestock handling in some cases.