Maungatere

  • Eyrewell Forest, New Zealand

We are seeking a motivated and capable 2IC to join our high-performing corporate sharemilking operation milking 900 spring-calving cows across 300 hectares.

This is a key leadership position designed to directly support the Farm Manager and contribute to overall farm production performance. The successful applicant will be expected to take ownership within their areas of responsibility, strengthen pasture and feed management, and help drive the farm toward its production and efficiency targets.

Previous experience in a 2IC role is preferred.

Applicants must be NZ residents.

— Non accredited employer—

About the Farm

- 900 crossbred cows across 300 hectares

- System focused on maximising pasture grown, harvested and converted to milk

- 64-bale Waikato rotary with Protrack, in-bale teat spray, cup removers and in-shed feeding

- Fully irrigated via 3 pivots equipped with VRI

- Effluent applied through pivots

- Modern calf-rearing facilities

- Backed by a wider corporate structure managing young stock, wintering and supplement production

- Professional, performance-driven environment that values efficiency and work-life balance

The Role

As 2IC, your primary expectation is to support the Farm Manager in delivering strong operational and production outcomes. You will play an active part in decision-making, pasture planning and team leadership to ensure the farm achieves its targets.

Key responsibilities include:

- Assisting the Farm Manager to meet and exceed production goals

- Contribute to ensuring pasture utilisation is optimised

- Leading the team in the Manager’s absence and supporting daily task coordination

- Maintaining high standards of animal health, welfare and shed presentation

- Promoting strong health and safety practices

- Operating and maintaining machinery and farm equipment

We are looking for someone who understands that production performance is driven by strong pasture management, efficient systems and cohesive teamwork.

What You’ll Bring

- Minimum 3 years dairy farming experience

- Previous 2IC experience preferred

- Good English and general communication skills

- Experience working with large herds and multiple staff

- Strong pasture management and feed planning capability

- Ability to support and lead a team effectively

- Sound knowledge of animal health and herd management

- Confidence making decisions and working independently

- Practical mechanical skills

- Strong attention to detail and pride in farm presentation

- Willingness to learn and confidently operate within the systems and processes implemented by the Farm Manager

What We Offer

- Modern 3-bedroom home

- 5 on / 2 off roster 6 on / 2 off during peak calving

- 3-in-2 milking from January

- Modern infrastructure and facilities

- Supportive corporate environment with opportunities for collaboration and career growth within

- Competitive remuneration based on experience

- Close to local schools

- 30 minutes to Rangiora and 45 minutes to Christchurch

- Positive, high-performing team culture

If you are ready to step into a leadership role where you will actively support management and contribute to production success, we welcome your application.

Please apply with your CV and cover letter