Farm Assistant

We are seeking a reliable and motivated Farm Assistant to join our dairy farming team.

The Farm Assistant will support the day-to-day operation of the farm, including milking, animal care, feeding livestock and general farm maintenance. This position offers an opportunity to develop practical dairy farming skills while contributing to the successful operation of the farm.

Reports to: Farm Manager / 2IC

Skills and Attributes

Essential

• Reliable, punctual and hardworking.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Able to work effectively in a team.
• Good communication skills.
• Honest and trustworthy.
• Physically fit and capable of manual outdoor work.
• Committed to animal welfare, health and safety, and environmental best practice.
• Able to follow instructions and complete work to a high standard.

Desirable

• Previous dairy farming experience preferred but not essential.
• Experience operating farm vehicles and machinery preferred.
• Full New Zealand Driver Licence or ability to obtain one.

Key Responsibilities

Milking & Milk Quality

• Complete milking routines efficiently and hygienically.
• Maintain dairy shed cleanliness and milk quality standards.
• Identify and report milk quality or equipment issues.

Animal Health & Welfare

• Assist with calving and calf rearing.
• Monitor herd health and report concerns.
• Assist with animal treatments as directed.
• Move and handle stock safely.

Feeding & Pasture

• Assist with feed allocation and grazing management.
• Operate feeding equipment safely.
• Monitor water systems and report faults.
• Assist with pasture management activities.

Farm Maintenance

• Operate farm bikes, side-by-side vehicles (LUVs), tractors and machinery safely.
• Assist with fencing, water systems, races and general maintenance.
• Assist with effluent system operation and maintenance.
• Maintain equipment and report faults.

Health, Safety & Environment

• Follow all farm health and safety procedures.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Report hazards, incidents and near misses.
• Comply with environmental and biosecurity requirements.
• Maintain a clean and tidy work environment.