🐔 Chicken Catcher Job – Responsibilities, Skills, and Work Environment

1. Introduction

In the world of poultry production, one of the most physically demanding yet essential roles is that of a Chicken Catcher.
Chicken catchers are responsible for collecting and loading live birds from farms for transport to processing facilities. Although it may sound simple, the job requires stamina, attention to detail, teamwork, and adherence to safety and animal welfare standards.

Many poultry companies, farms, and processing plants hire chicken catchers year-round, and they are vital to the success of the poultry supply chain. This article explores everything you need to know about this job — from daily responsibilities to salary expectations and long-term career growth opportunities.

2. What Does a Chicken Catcher Do?

A chicken catcher’s main duty is to capture live chickens and safely load them into transport crates or modules for shipment.
Typically, teams of chicken catchers work during nighttime or early morning hours to reduce stress on the birds and ensure cooler conditions.

Daily tasks include:

Entering poultry barns and catching chickens manually or using tools.
Placing chickens into crates or cages for transport.
Ensuring birds are handled carefully to avoid injury.
Following company safety and hygiene guidelines.
Cleaning and maintaining equipment after use.
Reporting any animal welfare issues or injuries.

This is physically intense work that involves bending, squatting, lifting, and repetitive movement, making endurance a key part of the job.

3. Working Conditions

Chicken catchers typically work in rural environments, on poultry farms, or inside large barns.
The work often occurs in low-light or dimly lit conditions, and employees must wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, masks, and sometimes coveralls.

Working environment highlights:

Temperature: May vary from cool to warm depending on the season.
Noise level: Moderate, with machinery and animals around.
Team size: Usually 4–10 workers per team.
Hours: Early mornings, nights, or weekend shifts.

The job is physically challenging but offers stable work, particularly in regions where poultry farming is a major industry.

4. Skills and Qualifications Required

While a high school diploma is often preferred, many chicken catcher positions are entry-level and offer on-the-job training.
Employers primarily look for workers with physical stamina, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions.

Essential skills include:

Physical fitness and endurance
Teamwork and cooperation
Basic understanding of animal welfare
Ability to work in fast-paced conditions
Responsibility and punctuality

Optional certifications:
Some poultry companies require animal handling or biosecurity certifications. These can help you earn higher pay and gain better positions in the industry.

5. Pay Rate and Benefits

The salary of a chicken catcher can vary based on region, employer, and experience.
In the United States and Canada, average pay ranges between $14 – $22 per hour, while in other countries it may vary between PKR 40,000 – 70,000 per month.

Benefits may include:

Overtime pay and weekend bonuses
Transportation provided by the employer
Paid training
Uniforms and safety gear
Opportunities for promotion to team leader or supervisor

In many companies, chicken catchers who prove themselves through reliability and hard work often move up to farm technician or supervisor roles within a few years.

6. Physical and Mental Demands

This job is not for everyone. It demands a high level of physical activity and mental resilience.
Chicken catchers must be prepared to work long hours, often in warm and dusty barns.
However, teamwork and shared responsibility make the job manageable and even rewarding for those who enjoy outdoor or hands-on work.

To stay fit and injury-free:

Stretch before and after shifts.
Stay hydrated.
Use proper lifting techniques.
Wear protective gear consistently.

7. Career Growth and Opportunities

Chicken catcher roles can lead to various positions within the poultry industry.
With experience, you can advance to:

Team Leader / Supervisor
Farm Maintenance Operator
Truck Loader / Transport Coordinator
Animal Welfare Technician
Production Line Worker (Processing Plants)

Some poultry companies even sponsor additional training or technical certifications for loyal employees.

8. Job Outlook

The poultry industry continues to grow worldwide, with increasing demand for chicken meat and eggs.
This growth ensures a steady demand for chicken catchers and related workers.
Automation is rising in some areas, but human workers are still essential for careful, humane bird handling and quality control.

If you are seeking a stable, physically active, and essential job, chicken catching can be a good fit — especially for those who don’t mind non-traditional work hours.

9. How to Apply

To apply for a Chicken Catcher position, you can:

Visit official poultry farm or processing company websites.
Check local job boards and government employment listings.
Contact staffing agencies that recruit agricultural workers.
Follow links like UmarBlogger.com for updated job postings.

When applying, highlight:

Your physical stamina
Any previous experience with animals
Teamwork skills and willingness to work flexible hours