Dairy Farm Manager

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Dairy Farm Manager to oversee the health, productivity, and general well-being of our dairy cattle. The ideal candidate will have strong veterinary expertise, a deep understanding of farm management, and a passion for ensuring high standards of animal care and productivity. In this role, the Dairy Farm Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the farm, taking a proactive approach to improving herd health, managing breeding programs, optimizing nutrition, and fostering a culture of continuous learning through staff training. By seamlessly integrating these areas, the Manager will ensure the farm operates efficiently, prioritizing both animal welfare and farm productivity while maintaining a safe and thriving environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Animal Health Care

1. Diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries, and other health conditions in dairy cattle, ensuring timely and accurate care.
2. Perform regular health checks and clinical assessments to facilitate early detection and effective treatment.
3. Administer vaccinations, medications, and other treatments as needed, adhering to best practices and veterinary guidelines.

2. Preventative Care

1. Develop and implement herd health programs to prevent diseases and infections, enhancing overall herd performance and welfare.
2. Monitor and manage biosecurity protocols to maintain a disease-free environment and minimize risks of contamination.
3. Conduct routine deworming, hoof care, and other preventative measures to ensure optimal cattle health and well-being.

3. Reproductive Management

1. Oversee artificial insemination (AI) and natural breeding programs, optimizing genetic potential within the herd to improve productivity.
2. Diagnose and manage reproductive disorders, ensuring continued fertility and overall productivity of the herd.
3. Monitor and assist with the calving process, providing neonatal care to ensure the health and survival of calves.

4. Nutrition and Productivity

1. Collaborate with nutritionists to develop and optimize feeding programs that support healthy growth, reproduction, and milk production.
2. Monitor milk production levels, implementing strategies to enhance both yield and quality while prioritizing animal welfare.
3. Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of feeding programs and make necessary adjustments to maximize overall performance.

5. Record Keeping and Reporting

1. Maintain detailed, accurate medical and production records for all animals, ensuring compliance with regulatory and farm standards.
2. Prepare and submit regular health, breeding, and productivity reports to senior management to keep them informed of farm performance.
3. Utilize data to identify trends, pinpoint areas for improvement, and highlight any issues requiring attention.

6. Training and Education

1. Educate farm staff on best practices in animal handling, health monitoring, and hygiene protocols.
2. Conduct workshops or training sessions to promote continuous learning, improving staff knowledge and efficiency.
3. Foster a culture of care, responsibility, and continuous improvement on the farm.

7. Emergency Care

1. Respond promptly to emergency situations, including injuries, calving difficulties, and disease outbreaks.
2. Perform necessary surgical procedures or interventions to ensure the health and safety of the animals.
3. Make critical decisions during emergencies, coordinating with external veterinarians or specialists when required.

8. Compliance and Safety

1. Ensure all farm operations comply with local veterinary regulations, health and safety guidelines, and farm policies.
2. Promote a culture of workplace safety, ensuring all farm staff adhere to safety protocols.
3. Conduct routine inspections and audits to maintain high farm standards and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, or a related field.
2. Proven experience (minimum of 5 years) in dairy farm management or a related veterinary field.
3. Strong veterinary skills with experience in herd health management.
4. Experience with artificial insemination, breeding programs, and reproductive health management.
5. Knowledge of nutrition, feeding programs, and milk production optimization.
6. Excellent record-keeping, reporting, and data analysis skills.
7. Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to train and motivate staff.
8. Ability to work under pressure and respond effectively in emergency situations.
9. Strong commitment to animal welfare and biosecurity.

We look forward to finding a dedicated Dairy Farm Manager who is passionate about animal welfare and committed to driving excellence on our farm!