Job Description

We are seeking an experienced team member (2+ years) to work as a Herd Manager on a 1000-cow operation in the Waimakariri area. The farm is located approximately 40 minutes from Christchurch and milks through a 60 bale rotary shed.

You'll have a range of duties to keep you busy, interested and developing including:

  • Milking and monitoring milk quality,
  • Training junior staff,
  • Stock handling and feeding (feed mgt),
  • Fencing, weed control,
  • Shed maintenance & preparation,
  • Tractor operation - feeding out
  • Monitoring, recording and maintaining animal health
  • Other general farm duties.

Weekly hours are a minimum of 30 and a maximum of 60. Since farm work is dependent on a number of unknown factors like weather and animals, any hours worked beyond the agreed maximum in a fortnightly pay period will be paid at the agreed overtime rate.

The schedule may vary; Roster will be 6 days on, 2 day's off.

Wage is between $33.56 - $35.00 per hour, depending on experience.

Candidates must have previous dairy farming experience and are required to provide valid references. 

To be considered you must:

  • Provide a CV which is current, correct and complete or alternative evidence of work (this is proof of work and professionalism and the employer will not consider you without this)
  • Be a solid worker and with good character
  • Be physically fit
  • Be able to pass a pre-employment drug test
  • have at least a restricted driver license.

Summary - if you're committed to being part of a great team, getting up early, working hard, treating the animals with care and respect and communicating well with others, you will want this job.

Farm Size (ha)

450

Peak Herd Size (cows)

1000

Typical On-farm Staff

5.5

Position Start Date

22/09/2026

Accommodation available

A two bedroom cottage is included. No pets or smoking are allowed in the accommodation. Rent will be deducted from wages. Power and Internet are payable by the worker.

Hour Type

season

Average Hours Per week

42

Roster

Single rotation - 6 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

Hourly / Daily / Weekly / Monthly / Yearly