About Us:
We are a well-established dairy farm 20 min from Ashburton. Our farm is committed to innovation, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility. We are currently seeking a highly skilled and passionate Dairy Farm Manager to join our team and help lead our operation to new heights.
split calving system 900 in spring and 580 in autumn which helps to spread the workload more evenly across the season.
Role Overview:
As the Dairy Farm Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the farm, ensuring the smooth and efficient management of our dairy herd, and maintaining high standards of animal care, farm health, and environmental practices. You will be key to driving productivity and performance on the farm while maintaining a safe and positive working environment for the team.
Key Responsibilities:
Manage the day-to-day operations of the dairy farm, including milking, feeding, breeding, and general herd management.
Ensure the welfare of the cows, including regular health checks and vaccinations.
Supervise and lead a team of farm workers, ensuring tasks are completed to high standards and on time.
Monitor and manage farm budgets, including feed costs, livestock management, and equipment maintenance.
Implement and maintain sustainable farming practices, including waste management and environmental conservation.
Maintain accurate records for herd performance, farm activities, and compliance with regulations.
Ensure health and safety standards are met for all farm activities and staff.
Collaborate with veterinarians, nutritionists, and other specialists to optimize herd performance.
Continuously improve operational efficiency and farm productivity.
Skills & Experience:
Proven experience in dairy farm management, preferably in a leadership role.
In-depth knowledge of dairy farming practices, including milking, herd management, and animal nutrition.
Strong understanding of health and safety regulations and environmental sustainability.
Excellent leadership and people management skills with the ability to motivate and support a team.
Budgeting, financial management, and record-keeping experience.
A genuine passion for animal welfare and the dairy farming industry.
Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a large team.
A current full driver’s license and a relevant farming qualification are desirable (e.g., NZDIA, Level 4 or 5).
What We Offer:
Competitive salary and benefits package. $120,000- $135,000 +5 cents per/ms produced on winter contract (June/July)
3 bedroom home with low maintenance garden, heat pump and fire place.
Opportunity to work in a supportive and progressive farming environment.
Training and development opportunities to further your career in the dairy industry.
A chance to make a significant impact on a well-established operation.