LIVESTOCK NEWS REPORTER

SUMMARY:

The Livestock News Reporter is responsible for analyzing and reporting livestock market activities. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Attends major livestock sales and observes and evaluates livestock, including such things as physical conditions, weight range, reruns, or trades.

Grades livestock by United States Department of Agriculture system (prime, choice, good).

Secures numbers on livestock sold and prices paid and notes trade activities.

Enters prices and trends into United States Department of Agriculture computer system for the national program.

Writes and distributes prepared reports via newspapers, radio, internet, and market news letter to producers and related entities.

Determines causes for market trend.

Records reports for radio broadcast.

Trains livestock judging teams and presents lectures to classes.

Performs other duties as assigned.

SPECIAL JOB DIMENSIONS:

Frequent to occasional in-state travel to livestock sales is required.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of livestock breeds and their physical condition. Knowledge of United States Department of Agriculture grading system. Knowledge of terminology used in livestock market reporting. Ability to evaluate livestock and analyze market trends.

Ability to write and present livestock market reports. Ability to train livestock judging teams and present lectures to classes. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written formats.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus one year of specialized training in animal science, agriculture, or a related field; plus one year of experience in livestock market activities or a related area.

Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.