Competent 2IC Wanted

$85,400 - $95,400 yearly

Job Description

2IC – Progressive Dairy Farm | Near Dunsandel

Lead from the front. Work with good people. Be proud of where you farm.

Gladfield Dairies is a progressive, people-first dairy operation running 1,500 cows through a modern 60-bail rotary.

We’re looking for an experienced 2IC to step into a key leadership role and help drive performance, culture, and day-to-day operations alongside the Farm Manager.

We run a tidy, well-maintained farm with modern systems, solid processes, and a tight-knit team of 6 who work hard and back each other. If you enjoy responsibility, problem-solving, and being part of a good crew — you’ll fit right in.

What We Offer

  • Genuine leadership responsibility and input into decisions.

  • Modern 60-bail rotary with ACRs, auto teat spray & drafting.

  • In-shed feeding.

  • Automatic vat and plant wash.

  • Supportive, experienced team environment.

  • Competitive pay based on experience.

  • Good 5/2 roster and work/life balance.

  • Opportunity to grow with herd expansion and farm development.

  • Great rural lifestyle close to town amenities.

The Role

You’ll work closely with the Manager to:

  • Lead and support the team day-to-day.

  • Help run milking operations efficiently.

  • Manage animal health and stock performance.

  • Shifting and managing irrigation and effluent.

  • Delegate tasks and keep jobs on track.

  • Troubleshoot issues in and out of the cowshed.

  • Assist with machinery operation and general farm maintenance.

This is a hands-on position suited to someone confident with people, machinery and livestock.

About the farm

  • 447 ha total | 401 ha effective

  • 5 pivots, 3 rotorainers, 2 guns and fixed grid
  • 1,500 cows

  • Strong focus on systems, efficiency, and continual improvement

  • Located just 10 minutes from Dunsandel and within easy reach of Rolleston and Christchurch. Schools, shops, rivers, hunting, fishing and Young Farmers nearby — great spot to build both a career and lifestyle.



You’ll bring

  • 4+ years dairy farming experience (2+ years as 2IC preferred).

  • Strong stockmanship and animal health knowledge.

  • Knowledge and understanding with irrigation and shifting irrigators efficiently.
  • Confident leading and motivating others.

  • Good communication and organisation skills.

  • Experience operating machinery (ATVs, tractors, etc.).

  • Solid general farm maintenance skills.

  • High standards for shed hygiene and presentation.

  • Full or restricted Class 1 drivers licence.

If you’re ready to step into a senior role on a progressive farm with a great culture, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and we'll get in touch for a chat.

Farm Size (ha)

450

Peak Herd Size (cows)

1500

Typical On-farm Staff

6

Position Start Date

20/07/2026

Accommodation available

Large 3 bedroom house with log burner and heat pump. Sleep out with log burner and heatpump. Single bay garage and large 4 bay shed with 2 lockable bays. 2 small sheep paddocks included.

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

45

Roster

Single rotation - 5 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

Remuneration if Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

Yes