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: $25.00 – $35.00 per hour
Expected hours: No less than 30 per week
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
Application Deadline: 17/08/2025
