We are seeking an experienced and motivated Dairy Farm Manager to join our dairy farming operation on the West Coast of New Zealand.
This is a full-time, permanent position managing a 1,200-cow dairy farm. The successful applicant will be responsible for the overall day-to-day management of the farm, including staff leadership, herd performance, pasture management, farm maintenance, compliance, and achieving production and business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage all day-to-day dairy farm operations.
- Lead, supervise, train, and support farm staff.
- Manage milking operations and ensure high milk quality standards are maintained.
- Develop and implement pasture management and feed budgeting plans.
- Monitor herd health, reproduction, animal welfare, and production performance.
- Identify and address animal health issues promptly.
- Maintain accurate farm records, including production, animal health, compliance, and staff records.
- Plan and coordinate seasonal farm activities.
- Oversee farm infrastructure, machinery, and equipment maintenance.
- Manage farm resources efficiently to achieve production and financial targets.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety requirements, environmental regulations, and industry best practices.
- Work closely with farm owners to implement farm policies and achieve business goals.
Hours and Remuneration
- Permanent, full-time position.
- Guaranteed minimum of 40 hours per week.
- Hours may vary according to seasonal farm requirements, up to a maximum of 45 hours per week.
- Salary of $80,000–$85,000 per annum, depending on skills and experience.
- A 2-bedroom house is provided as part of the employment package.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have at least 2 years of relevant dairy farming management experience.
- Have completed at least NCEA Level 1 or an equivalent qualification.
- Have proven experience managing dairy farm operations, staff, and livestock.
- Have sound knowledge of pasture-based dairy farming systems.
- Be competent in animal health management, feed planning, and farm compliance requirements.
- Be physically fit and capable of carrying out the duties associated with dairy farming.
- Hold a current driver's licence or be able to obtain one.
- Be able to pass pre-employment and ongoing drug and alcohol testing.
- Have no criminal convictions that would prevent employment in this role.
Personal Attributes
To excel in this role, you will be:
- Patient and able to remain calm and effective under pressure.
- Perseverant and resilient when faced with challenges.
- Self-disciplined and able to maintain high standards without close supervision.
- Responsible and accountable for staff, livestock, farm assets, and operational outcomes.
- Independent and capable of planning, prioritising, and making sound decisions.
- Committed to continuous learning and professional development, with a lifelong growth and improvement mindset.
- Honest, reliable, and trustworthy.
- A strong communicator with effective leadership and people-management skills.
- Committed to maintaining high standards of animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and workplace health and safety.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of $80,000–$85,000 per annum.
- Guaranteed minimum of 40 hours per week.
- A well-maintained 2-bedroom house.
- Supportive farm owners and a positive team environment.
- Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.
- The opportunity to live and work in a welcoming rural community on the West Coast of New Zealand.
Applicants should submit a current CV outlining their qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.