Farm Manager - Apprenticeship

Woodfarm Fencing Supplies Limited; Munster; On-site; EUR 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation available

Job summary

Woodfarm Fencing Supplies Limited is seeking a motivated individual to join a dairy farming business as a First Year Apprentice, with options to complete a Farm Technician or Farm Manager Apprenticeship. The role is based at an exceptional rural location near Cork City and includes full training and hands-on learning.

The farm operates a Spring-calving, grass-based system with a focus on maximising production from pasture.

Qualifications

• Interest in dairying as a career, not just a short-term role.
• Willingness to learn and take responsibility over time.
• Excellent English & communication skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Milking and animal husbandry
• Calf rearing and youngstock management
• Grassland management and farm walking
• Assisting with herd health, breeding, and nutrition
• General farm maintenance and organisation
• Gradual involvement in farm management decisions

Skills

English proficiency

Communication

Job description

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Job Description

First Year Apprentice VacancyDairy Farm Apprentice / Trainee Farm Manager

Location: Exceptional rural location close to Cork City

Herd Size: ~260 cows total (130 cows per farm)

System: Spring-calving, grass-based, low-cost production

60 calves and 60 heifers reared on heifer block nearby.

We are seeking a motivated and reliable individual to join our dairy farm business. This role is ideal for someone who would like to complete either a Farm Technician Apprenticeship or a Farm Manager Apprenticeship. Full training and support will be provided.

About the Farm

• Pasture-based, low-cost dairy system with a strong focus on maximising production from grass


• Spring-calving herd of crossbred Jersey–Friesian cows


• Two milking platforms approximately 7 km apart


• Two simple herringbone parlours


• Modern calf shed with automatic calf feeders


• Most machinery work is contracted out, allowing focus on cows, grass, and management

Location & Lifestyle

• The farm is located close to Cork City, offering the benefits of rural farming with easy access to urban amenities


• Nearby access to shops, gyms, sports clubs, nightlife, and education/training facilities


• Ideal for someone who wants a strong farming career without being isolated*

The Role:

• Milking and animal husbandry


• Calf rearing and youngstock management


• Grassland management and farm walking


• Assisting with herd health, breeding, and nutrition


• General farm maintenance and organisation


• Gradual involvement in decision-making and farm management (for suitable candidates)

Please be aware that to qualify for an apprenticeship in Ireland you must already have the right to live here. Those on or seeking work visas are ineligible to complete an apprenticeship.

The Ideal Candidate

• Interested in dairying as a career, not just a short-term job


• Willing to learn and take responsibility over time


• Positive attitude and good work ethic


• Enjoys working with livestock and outdoors


• Previous farm experience is an advantage but not essential


• Excellent English & communication skills essential

What We Offer

• Opportunity to complete a Farm Technician or Farm Manager Apprenticeship


• Structured training and hands‑on learning


• Exposure to a well‑run, grass‑focused dairy system


• Competitive pay based on experience


• Accommodation can be arranged for the right candidate, if required


• Long‑term career progression for the right person

Note: As part of the national apprenticeship system, there are formal requirements for approval of an employer's suitability to train apprentices and for registration of apprentices. Advertising on this site does not guarantee that Employers are approved to recruit and train for apprenticeship positions.