Herd manager

Key task

Manage a peak milking herd of approximately 1,400 cows through a modern 50-bale rotary shed with automatic cup removers and teat spraying. well-designed 346 ha farm, including 104 ha in a pie-shaped layout and the remaining area divided into convenient 7–8 ha square paddocks.

Responsibilties

• Carry out all animal treatments and health management in the shed, ensuring cows receive the correct care and treatment.
• Manage pasture rotation and grazing to maintain good pasture utilisation and feed availability.
• Take responsibility for effluent management and ensure the system is operated safely and effectively.
• Complete fencing repairs and maintenance around the farm.
• Carry out spraying, weed control and topping as required.
• Assist with general farm maintenance and day-to-day farm work to keep the farm running efficiently.
• Maintain high standards of animal welfare, farm presentation and safe work practices.

Experience & Reporting

A minimum of 3 years’ full-time experience in New Zealand dairy farming, preferably on a larger-scale dairy operation, is required.

The successful applicant will need to be confident working independently, have good practical farming skills, and be able to take responsibility for day-to-day herd and farm tasks.

You will report directly to the Farm Manager or Contract Milker and work closely with the wider farm team.