Herd manager

We are seeking a motivated and reliable Entry-Level Herd Manager to join our dairy farming team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a genuine interest in New Zealand dairy farming who is looking to develop their skills, gain valuable experience, and progress their career in the dairy industry.

We welcome applications from both keen learners looking to build their knowledge and experienced farm workers seeking a stable position within a supportive and positive working environment.

About the Role

The successful candidate will be involved in the day-to-day management of the herd, pasture, and general farm operations. Our farm focuses on achieving sustainable productivity, maintaining excellent animal health, and maximising pasture utilisation.

The farm operates a 36-bail internal rotary milking shed.

Key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Herd management, including monitoring animal health and wellbeing.
• Milking cows and identifying mastitis and other animal health issues.
• Following milking hygiene and quality assurance procedures to maintain a high-quality milk supply.
• Animal health treatments and maintaining accurate farm records.
• Pasture management, feed allocation, and feeding out.
• Setting up and maintaining break fences.
• Carrying out fencing repairs and general farm maintenance.
• Monitoring and managing effluent and irrigation systems.
• Operating farm machinery and equipment safely.
• Assisting with feed budgeting and other farm management activities.

Training and Development

We are committed to supporting the successful candidate’s professional development. This position offers an excellent opportunity to learn and develop practical skills across all aspects of dairy farming.

Support for Primary ITO training and courses will be available to suitable candidates.

We are looking for someone who is eager to learn, takes initiative, works well within a team, and can think on their feet when challenges arise.

Employment Conditions

• Position: Entry-Level Herd Manager.
• Roster: 12 days on, followed by 2 days off.
• Guaranteed minimum hours: 30 hours per week.
• Overtime: Additional hours worked will be paid at $35 per hour.
• Shared Accommodation is available on farm
• On-farm living is required due to the nature and requirements of the role.
• Work environment: A supportive team with opportunities for ongoing learning and development.

Essential Requirements

Applicants must:

• Have knowledge of New Zealand dairy farming.
• Preference will be given to dairy farm experience but not essential.
• New Zealand citizen or hold a valid visa permitting them to undertake the role.
• Hold a full, valid driver’s licence.
• Be reliable, physically fit, and capable of carrying out general dairy farm duties.
• Be willing to undertake a pre-employment drug test.
• Have no criminal convictions.
• Be willing to live on-farm.
• Have no pets.
• Be a non-smoker and not vape.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, responsible, and committed to maintaining high standards of animal welfare, milk quality, and farm performance. A positive attitude, willingness to learn, good communication skills, and the ability to work independently are essential.

Preference will be given to applicants who hold a degree, bachelor’s qualification, or other tertiary graduation qualification

Apply now with your CV and a brief introduction outlining your dairy farming experience and suitability for the role.