Seeking experienced herd manager/2ic for immediate start

Valley Field Dairies

We are looking for a Dairy Farm Assistant / 2IC – Immediate Start

🏡Valley Field Dairies | Waikaka Valley, Gore, Southland

Valley Field Dairies is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Dairy Farm Assistant or 2IC to join our team for an immediate start, following one of our valued team members moving on for the upcoming season.

We are a family-owned and operated farming business located in the Waikaka Valley, just 10 minutes from Gore. Our business combines both dairy and beef farming, with all operations managed as one integrated system. We pride ourselves on maintaining high standards of animal welfare, fostering a positive team environment, and embracing modern technology to improve efficiency and make farming more enjoyable.

As part of our wider farming business, you'll gain exposure to both our dairy and beef operations, with Halter technology integrated across the entire system. We are continually investing in our people, technology, and infrastructure, including major upgrades to our calf-rearing facilities, to ensure our business continues to grow and improve.

- About the Farm -

* 500-cow dairy herd

* 280 ha effective milking platform

* 40-aside herringbone dairy with Automatic Cup Removers (ACRs)

* Halter farming system across both our dairy and beef operations

* Protrack automatic drafting system

* Family-owned operation

* Accredited Employer (AEWV)

* Integrated dairy and beef farming business operated as one progressive farming system

* Nil Bobby calf-rearing system, raising approximately 600 calves each season

* Ongoing investment in modern technology and farm infrastructure

## The Role

You will work alongside our Farm Manager and Herd Manager as part of a supportive and experienced team. Depending on your experience, this position can be tailored as either a Dairy Farm Assistant or  2IC role, with responsibilities and remuneration reflecting your skills and experience.

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

* Milking and general dairy farm operations

* Animal health and wellbeing

* Feeding and pasture management

* Tractor work and machinery operation

* Maintenance of farm equipment and infrastructure

* Assisting with calving and calf rearing

* Contributing to the efficient running of both the dairy and wider farming operation

* Working safely and positively as part of our team

## What We're Looking For

The successful applicant will have:

* A minimum of 2 years' dairy farming experience

* A current **full New Zealand driver's licence

* Experience operating and maintaining farm machinery (tractors are essential)

* A strong work ethic and positive attitude

* A genuine commitment to high standards of animal health and welfare

* Good communication skills and the ability to work both independently and within a team

* Reliability, honesty, and pride in producing quality work

Experience with Halter or Protrack is an advantage, but not essential, as training will be provided.

## What We Offer

* Immediate start available

* Competitive remuneration package based on experience

* On-farm accommodation available in a tidy three-bedroom cottage

* The opportunity to work with industry-leading technology, including Halter and Protrack

* A progressive farming business that continues to invest in technology, infrastructure, and staff development

* A supportive, family-owned workplace with a strong team culture

* Opportunities to grow your skills and progress your career

Whether you're an experienced Dairy Farm Assistant ready to take the next step or an established 2IC looking for a progressive farming business, we'd love to hear from you.

**To apply, please email or message your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience: