Dairy Farm Assistant
Location: Southland, New Zealand
We are seeking a reliable, hardworking, and motivated Dairy Farm Assistant to join our team on a modern dairy farm milking approximately 1,200 cows through a 60-bale rotary milking shed. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with livestock and wants to develop their dairy farming skills.
Key Responsibilities
Milking cows efficiently and maintaining high milk quality standards.
Assisting with animal health, including identifying and treating sick or injured animals under supervision.
Detecting cows on heat and assisting with mating and calving.
Moving stock safely and handling cattle using low-stress techniques.
Feeding cows and managing supplements according to farm requirements.
Assisting with pasture allocation, break fencing, and grazing management.
Operating and maintaining farm machinery and equipment safely.
Cleaning and maintaining the milking shed and dairy plant to high hygiene standards.
Recording animal health, treatments, milk quality, and other farm information.
Assisting with calf rearing and young stock management during the calving season.
Helping maintain fences, water systems, lanes, and general farm infrastructure.
Supporting the Herd Manager with daily planning and ensuring tasks are completed efficiently.
Following all health and safety, animal welfare, and environmental requirements.
Working effectively as part of a team while also being able to work independently when required.
Skills and Experience
Previous dairy farming experience is preferred.
A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Good stockmanship and animal welfare knowledge.
Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends during busy periods.
Physically fit and capable of working outdoors in all weather conditions.
Honest, reliable, and able to communicate effectively with the farm team.