Youngstock Farm Manager - Develop future stock and lead with purpose in a high-performing, pasture-based farming system.

Permanent - Full Time Farm Manager

Job Description

About Us

Canterbury Grasslands Ltd is a progressive, pasture-focused farming group operating across three regional hubs: Waikato, Canterbury, and Southland. We take pride in growing healthy animals, supporting high-performing dairy platforms, and developing great people. Our values—People, Pride, and Performance, guide our approach to farming and leadership.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a capable and passionate Youngstock Farm Manager to take charge of 1,650 R1 heifers on our fully irrigated 302 ha Silverwood support block in Hororata, Canterbury. Working a 5:2 roster, you’ll oversee all aspects of animal health, pasture planning, irrigation, and farm presentation, playing a key role in supporting nine surrounding dairy farms.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage the daily care, health, and nutrition of youngstock in line with growth targets.
  • Implement herd health plans in collaboration with veterinarians.
  • Lead irrigation monitoring and light maintenance to optimise pasture conditions.
  • Keep accurate stock, health, and feed records.
  • Ensure all operations align with health & safety protocols and compliance requirements.
  • Train, support, supervise farm staff and contribute to monthly financial reviews.
  • Maintain a tidy, well-presented farm with attention to environmental and infrastructure standards.

What We’re Looking For

  • Minimum 5 years of dairy farming experience, ideally with youngstock.
  • Strong skills in animal health, pasture management, and irrigation systems.
  • Effective leadership and team coordination.
  • Organised, proactive, and solutions-focused.
  • Must have NZ working rights. Canterbury Grasslands Ltd is an Accredited Employer and can support AEWV applications for NZ-based candidates only.

What We Offer

  • A four-bedroom home is part of the package.
  • 5:2 roster.
  • Autonomy with strong team support.
  • A respected name in the Canterbury dairy sector.
  • A genuine opportunity to shape the development of future herd performance.

Farm Size (ha)

302

Peak Herd Size (cows)

2400 R1s & R2s

Typical On-farm Staff

1

Position Start Date

10/06/2025

Accommodation available

Four-bedroom home

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

53

Roster

Single rotation - 5 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

By Negotiation