Careers in the Cattle Sector
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Trucker

Transportation of live animals is not the same as transporting other goods. There are many regulations about how long animals can be transported, how many can be put in a trailer or cattle liner, and other specifications. There also must be a high level of knowledge of animal behaviour in how to load and unload animals safely and in a low-stress manner. Most trips are between farms, to slaughter plants, or to ports of export, which may involve international border crossings. These truck drivers will often work long hours for extended periods of time on the road away from their families.

Primary Duties:

  • Operate trucks and manoeuvre them in a precise manner into tight spaces, especially as a means to ensure no escape or injury to animals being moved out of or into the trailer.
  •  Load livestock and unload livestock in a humane manner, as (with loading) a means to maximize space in different compartments, and distribute weight accordingly for safe transportation, or (with unloading) to ensure safety and minimize stress for both animals and trucker.
  • Ensure humane, safe and efficient transport animals for short or long distances, which will involve the responsibility for the welfare of animals at all times.
  • Conduct security checks and inspections along the route, which may involve making emergency roadside adjustments and repairs when necessary.
  • Follow local and interprovincial road safety regulations.
  • Wash and disinfect trailer after each delivery.
  • Perform regular inspections on the truck and trailer, checking brakes, lights, tires, horn, and other parts and equipment.
  • Report all maintenance requirements to supervisor.
  • Maintain records of loads delivered and received, including arrival and departure times, number and weight (if applicable) of livestock transported, as well as vehicle log books on fuel consumption, hours of service, mileage, oil changes, etc.

Skills and Qualifications:

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with both dispatch and customers
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Have good health and vision
  • Ability to remain alert and achieve a high level of concentration while on the road
  • Good time management skills
  • Good judgement, depth perception, and ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations
  • Mechanical aptitude for making minor repairs
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Good knowledge of traffic laws and trucking regulations in various jurisdictions

Working Environment:
Truckers often work long hours behind the wheel in a wide variety of road, traffic and weather conditions. Livestock transport may be long-distance or short, with runs being accomplished all day or travelling done both during the day and at night, often for days to weeks at a time. Sitting for extended periods are expected of this career and may be hard on the back. Hours of service regulations are mandatory for long-haul truckers and the number of hours spent driving must be recorded in a prescribed log book and kept up to date. These log books are required to be made available for inspection by department of transportation personnel or even law officers.

Education and Training:
No post-secondary education is required; Grade 10 reading and writing skills are required, however. Driver training and certification must be complete, including a mandatory drug screening exam. A Class 1 drivers license with accompanying air brake endorsement is generally required to operate transport trucks. One years’ experience driving truck/trailer unit and experience working with livestock are preferred.

Salary and Wages:
Average hours worked: 51.5 hours per week
Average wage: $22.03 per hour
Average salary (Alberta): $58,140.00 per annum

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