Breeder Job Profile
Final Level of Education: Agricultural CAP/BEP in Animal Production, Specialized Breeding
Breeders are responsible for managing and maintaining livestock, ensuring optimal health, reproduction, and product processing. They work with rare, wild, or domestic animals in compliance with health and safety regulations, environmental standards, and production guidelines.
Learn MoreOverview
Breeders oversee the care, feeding, reproduction, and overall management of farm animals, exotic species, or domestic pets. Their expertise extends to optimizing farm spaces for animal welfare, processing animal-based products, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.
Key skills include teamwork, precision, organizational abilities, and adaptability to different farming and breeding environments.
Main Responsibilities
Breeders handle a wide range of tasks, including:
- Managing feeding, care, and reproduction of various animal species.
- Processing and marketing farm products such as honey, gingerbread, fur, and more.
- Training or educating farm animals.
- Maintaining scientific oversight on animal husbandry techniques.
- Collecting, testing, and analyzing samples and materials.
- Identifying health issues in animals and notifying veterinarians or caretakers.
- Supervising farm teams or managing an entire farm operation.
Training & Expertise
To become a breeder, candidates typically complete vocational training in agricultural studies. Recommended certifications include:
- BPA Animal Production
- BPA Canine and Feline Breeding Work
- Agricultural CAP (vocational training certificate)
- CAP Agricultural Trades
- BTA (Brevet de Technicien Agricole) in Livestock Management
- Bac Pro in Farm Management with a focus on livestock systems
- BTS ACSE (Analysis and Management of Farming Systems)
Work Environment
Breeders work in diverse settings, including:
- Outdoor farms, breeding facilities, and research laboratories.
- Refrigerated areas for product storage and processing.
- Enclosures for wild or exotic species.
- Fast-paced, repetitive work environments.
Occupational hazards include:
- Exposure to various weather conditions and outdoor elements.
- Handling large or aggressive animals.
- Wearing protective uniforms or specialized equipment.
- Physical demands such as lifting heavy materials.
Salary & Special Features
Approximately 80% of breeder jobs offer a gross monthly salary between €1,747 and €2,100. Earnings may increase with experience, specialization, and farm size.
Compliance with Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSSE) regulations is essential in this field. Breeders play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture, conservation breeding, and animal welfare programs.