Job Description

MUST CURRENTLY BE IN NZ AND ABLE TO ATTEND IN PERSON INTERVIEW WHEN INVITED 

Smulders Farming Limited is seeking an experienced and motivated Herd Manager to join our team in Oamaru. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled dairy farming professional looking to take the next step in their career within a progressive and high-performing farming business.

Working alongside the Sharemilker and wider farm team, you'll play a key role in the day-to-day management of the herd, animal health programmes, milk quality, and farm performance. The role is based in a herringbone milking shed, so previous experience in herringbone systems is desirable.

About the Role

As Herd Manager, you will be responsible for:

  • Milking and managing cows through a herringbone shed
  • Monitoring and maintaining high milk quality standards
  • Animal health monitoring, treatment and record keeping
  • Assisting with mating, calving and young stock management
  • Identifying and recording animal health and production data
  • Effluent management and environmental compliance
  • Operating and maintaining farm machinery and equipment
  • Supporting and mentoring junior team members
  • Contributing to a positive farm culture focused on safety, animal welfare and continuous improvement

About You

To be successful, you will have:

  • Previous experience in a Herd Manager role (3 years)
  • Strong animal husbandry and stock handling skills
  • Experience with mating, calving and herd health programmes
  • Good understanding of milk quality requirements and dairy hygiene
  • Excellent work ethic, reliability and attention to detail
  • A positive attitude and willingness to lead by example
  • Current driver's licence
  • Eligibility to work in New Zealand

What We Offer

  • Competitive remuneration package based on experience
  • Quality accommodation
  • Opportunities for training and career progression
  • Supportive and experienced team
  • Modern farming systems and equipment

Why Join Smulders Farming Limited ?

At Smulders Farming Limited, we are passionate about producing high quality milk while supporting our people to grow and succeed. You'll join an enthusiastic team that values animal welfare, health and safety, and continuous improvement.

If you're ready to build your dairy farming career with a progressive business in Oamaru we'd love to hear from you.

Farm Size (ha)

181

Peak Herd Size (cows)

680

Typical On-farm Staff

4

Position Start Date

01/12/2026

Accommodation available

3 bedroom house available on farm

Hour Type

week

Average Hours Per week

50

Roster

Single rotation - 6 Days on / 2 days Off

Remuneration paid by

By Negotiation

Remuneration if Total Package Value (e.g. Salary and/or benefits)

TPV 75000-90000