Assistant Manager

Craigmore Sustainables; Te Pirita; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-farm accommodation

3-bedroom home

Job summary

Craigmore Sustainables in Te Pirita, Canterbury, seeks an experienced Assistant Manager (2IC) for Te Awa Dairy Farm this season. This key leadership role supports the Farm Manager and leads the day-to-day operations, staff supervision, milking oversight, animal health, and continuous improvement.

With 4+ years in dairy farming, strong animal health knowledge, and independent working style, you will help with budgeting, safety, and environmental compliance, plus on-farm accommodation in a

Qualifications

• 4+ years of dairy farming experience
• Strong animal health knowledge
• High attention to detail and commitment to high standards
• Ability to work independently and communicate effectively
• Full driver licence and NZ work rights
• Experience supervising staff or contractors

Responsibilities

• Assist Farm Manager with day-to-day operations and staff supervision
• Support milking operations from paddock to dairy shed
• Manage livestock health and welfare
• Assist with feed planning and budgeting
• Support environmental compliance (effluent, nutrient, soil, water)
• Promote workplace health and safety standards
• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of farm machinery and vehicles
• Contribute to team culture focused on performance and continuous improvement

Skills

Leadership

Effective communication

Attention to detail

Independent work

Education

Level 4 Primary ITO qualification or higher

Tools

Farm machinery operation

Machinery maintenance

Vehicle operation

Job description

Assistant Manager (2IC) – Te Awa Dairy Farm

Te Pirita, Canterbury 2026/2027 Season

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Assistant Manager (2IC) to join our team this current season. This is a key leadership role on farm, replacing a long-term team member, within a high-performing dairy operation focused on production, animal health, team culture, and continuous improvement.

About the Farm

• 850 cows across 226 hectares
• High-performing system
• Modern farming technology and systems
• Strong focus on animal health, farm performance, and team development

Key Tasks & Responsibilities

• Assist the Farm Manager with the day-to-day operation and management of the farm, including supervision of staff and contractors
• Support and oversee milking operations from paddock to dairy shed
• Manage livestock in accordance with industry best practice for animal health and welfare
• Assist with feed planning and budgeting to ensure stock are fed to target
• Support environmental compliance, including effluent, nutrient, soil, and water management
• Promote and maintain high standards of workplace health and safety
• Ensure the safe operation and maintenance of farm vehicles, machinery, and equipment
• Contribute positively to a team culture focused on performance, accountability, and continuous improvement

Experience & Skills Required

• Minimum 4 years’ dairy farming experience, including at least 2 years in a Herd Manager or equivalent role
• Level 4 Primary ITO qualification or higher preferred but not essential
• Strong practical animal health knowledge and experience
• High attention to detail with a commitment to maintaining high standards
• Competent operating farm machinery and equipment
• Ability to work independently, use initiative, and communicate effectively
• Full driver licence required
• Applicants must currently be in New Zealand and available for interview

Remuneration & Hours

• Permanent, full-time position
• Total package value of $90,000.00 to $100,000.00 (including accommodation allowance) depending on experience
• On-farm accommodation provided
• Typically a 3-bedroom home suitable for an individual or family

Additional Requirements

• Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain one

This farm is owned and operated by Craigmore Sustainables.

Craigmore Sustainables is a purpose-led business operating farms, orchards and forests across New Zealand. Every day, our people work together to produce premium food and fibre while building sustainable businesses for the long term. We invest in great people, practical innovation and strong partnerships, and take pride in creating value by caring for the land, supporting rural communities and continually improving the way we work. Together, we're helping shape the future of New Zealand's primary industries.