Dairy Herd Manager

seek.co.nz; Balclutha; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 93,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation

Guaranteed 40 hours/week

Job summary

Jora New Zealand invites applications for a Dairy Farm Herd Manager at a progressive 660 herd size cow dairy farm located in Balclutha, South Otago. This hands-on role supports the Farm Manager in daily operations and offers opportunities for career growth within the dairy industry.

Guaranteed hours: minimum 40 hours per week. Salary range: $80,000 - $92,800 per annum, with onsite accommodation included. This remuneration reflects experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in dairy farming.
• Strong understanding of pasture management, animal health, and modern dairy farming systems.
• Ability to supervise and support staff in a farm environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist with day-to-day management of the farm’s financial and physical performance, including annual budget monitoring.
• Implement and oversee feeding plans, budgets, and animal health programmes.
• Supervise staff and coordinate operations in the owner/manager's absence.
• Mentor and train junior staff to build on-farm skills.
• Oversee milking operations from paddock to dairy and maintain milking plant.
• Maintain records and ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and welfare standards.
• Support seasonal operations such as calving and herd management.

Skills

Pasture management

Animal health

Staff supervision

Communication

Teamwork

Record-keeping

Machinery operation

Health & safety

Tools

Farm machinery

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Dairy Farm Herd Manager to join our team on a

progressive 660 herd size cow dairy farm located in Balclutha, South Otago. This is a hands-

on role that supports the Farm Manager in the day-to-day running of the farm and

offers opportunities for career development in the dairy industry.

Guaranteed hours: Minimum of 40 hours per week.

Salary range: $80,000 - $92,800 per annum depending experience and qualifications.

This remuneration includes a reasonable deduction for onsite accommodation provided by the employer.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the day-to-day management of the farm’s physical and financial performance, including contributing to the development and monitoring of the annual farm budget
• Implement and oversee feeding plans, feeding budgets, and animal health programmes in line with seasonal needs
• Supervise staff and coordinate farm operations in the absence of the Farm Manager or Owner
• Support, mentor, and help train junior staff to build their skills and confidence on-farm
• Oversee milking operations from paddock to dairy, ensuring best practices are followed; carry out and manage routine maintenance of the milking plant, including identifying and resolving faults
• Maintain accurate records and reporting systems, ensuring full compliance with health and safety, environmental, and animal welfare requirements
• Provide hands-on support with seasonal operations including calving, mating, and herd management

Skills and Experience Required

• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant experience in dairy farming - we value practical experience and a willingness to learn
• Strong understanding of pasture management, animal health, and modern dairy farming systems
• Ability to supervise and support staff in a farm environment
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Strong time management, record-keeping, and compliance skills, with a good understanding of industry regulations and standards
• Proficient in operating farm machinery with the ability to train and guide staff in safe and effective machinery use
• Sound knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures in a farming context, with a demonstrated commitment to promoting and maintaining a safe workplace

Additional Information

• Must be physically fit and willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Due to the nature of the employment, on-site accommodation is provided and is included in the remuneration package.