Herd Manager

Guaranteed Hours: Minimum of 30 hours per week

Accommodation: Provided on-farm (Note: no pets permitted)

Job Description

We are seeking a reliable and motivated Herd Manager to join our team in supporting the day-to-day operations of a working dairy farm. The successful applicant will work closely with the Farm Manager and other staff to ensure the smooth running of all farming activities, with a strong focus on livestock welfare, feed management, and environmental responsibility.

Core Responsibilities

Feed and Pasture Management

• Support the Farm Manager with feed planning and implementation
• Assist in managing weed and pest control to protect pasture and crops
• Ensure fertiliser application and irrigation are completed by staff as required

Milking Operations

• Carry out and oversee daily milking routines
• Maintain strict hygiene practices and monitor milk quality
• Ensure plant cleaning and somatic cell count standards are upheld

Effluent Management

• Operate and maintain effluent systems in line with regional council regulations
• Maintain accurate records of effluent usage and compliance

Animal Health and Welfare

• Support the delivery of animal health programmes
• Assist with calving and calf-rearing, aiming to minimise stock loss
• Help manage herd replacements and stock purchasing/sales
• Maintain up-to-date herd records and ensure data is accurately transferred
• Supervise and assist with training of junior staff as required

Farm Operations and Compliance

• Assist the Farm Manager in implementing business plans and operational targets
• Participate in machinery and infrastructure maintenance planning
• Follow company procedures and contribute to a positive team culture

Health, Safety and Environment

• Comply with all health and safety protocols, including the use of PPE
• Report any hazards, incidents or near-misses promptly to the Farm Manager
• Contribute to environmentally sustainable farm practices
• Assist with farm development projects as needed

Skills and Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Minimum 1 year of relevant full-time experience in the dairy farming industry; OR
• A Bachelor's degree (or higher qualification) in Agriculture or a closely related field

Applicants must also meet the following employer-specific requirements:

• Be physically fit and able to meet the physical demands of farm work
• Pass a pre-employment drug test
• Provide an up-to-date CV and at least two verifiable references from previous employers
• Hold a valid driver licence
• Be legally entitled to work in New Zealand (i.e. NZ citizen/resident or hold a valid work visa)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.00 – $35.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• Are you a New Zealand citizen or a New Zealand resident?

• If you are in New Zealand but not a NZ citizen/resident, what visa are you currently holding?

• Do you have any specific accommodation requirements? E.g. Partner, children, pets, own or shared accommodation etc.

Work Location: In person