Job Description

Must apply via Rural Directions Website - https://www.ruraldirections.co.nz/jobs?ja-job=1121994 

Your Role

As 2IC, you’ll work closely with the Farm Manager across the day-to-day running of Monowai Dairy Farm, stepping up to oversee the farm when the Manager is away. This is a great opportunity for an experienced dairy team member ready to take on more responsibility, or an experienced 2IC/Manager looking to stay hands-on.

Strong stockmanship and pasture management skills are essential, along with good communication, organisation and a positive attitude. You’ll be part of a small, supportive team and will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge of the farm’s 82ha lucerne and cut-and-carry programme.

What You’ll Bring:

·         2–3 years’ dairy farming experience

·         Strong stockmanship and animal husbandry skills

·         Good understanding of pasture management

·         Good communication and organisational skills

·         A positive attitude and willingness to learn

·         Farm machinery experience is an advantage

·         A current restricted driver’s licence at a minimum.

To read more about the position please visit – https://bit.ly/3TalgYo

What’s on Offer

·         Opportunity to be part of a developing farm as redevelopment and systems continue to evolve.

·         Take on greater responsibility and gain further leadership experience within a supportive team.

·         Work alongside an experienced Farm Manager and small, productive dairy team.

·         Gain exposure to a large-scale dairy operation, including a 900-cow system and 82ha lucerne cut-and-carry programme.

·         Develop your knowledge of animal health, pasture management and efficient farm systems.

·         Be part of an inclusive team that values teamwork, good communication and productivity.

·         Modernised farm infrastructure, including a fully rebuilt 60-aside herringbone shed and central laneway system.

About SJ Pastures

SJ Pastures is contract milking Monowai Dairy Farm, a 370ha property in the Rangitaiki area, approximately 25 minutes south of Taupō.

The farm has undergone a significant redevelopment, with the 60-aside herringbone shed, accommodation, fencing, laneways, machinery and water infrastructure all comprehensively upgraded. The farm is currently milking approximately 900 cows, with ACRs planned over the next two seasons.

With the redevelopment nearing completion, this is an opportunity to join a well-supported team as the farm moves into the next phase of refining systems, farming practices and production.            

Applications close Sunday 11 October 2026, APPLY NOW

Apply early! We will be assessing applications as they are received and may close the position early.

Must apply via Rural Directions Website - https://www.ruraldirections.co.nz/jobs?ja-job=1121994 

Farm Size (ha)

370

Peak Herd Size (cows)

900

Typical On-farm Staff

3

Position Start Date

12/10/2026

Accommodation available

Tidy, renovated 3-bedroom home

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

45

Roster

Single rotation - 5 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

By Negotiation