Dairy Operations Lead & Apprenticeship Mentor

Wolfe's Neck Center for Agriculture & the Environment; Freeport (ME); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Paid vacation

Sick days

Maine holidays

Retirement plan

Housing

Job summary

Wolfe's Neck Center for Agriculture & the Environment in Freeport, Maine, seeks an Assistant Dairy Manager to lead daily dairy operations, mentor apprentices, and coordinate grazing and herd health. The role emphasizes safe, efficient workflows and hands-on leadership within a small, mission-driven team.

Reporting to the Senior Manager of the Dairy Program, you will manage milking, pasture management, staff training, and compliance while supporting on-farm research and community education

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in organic and/or pasture-based livestock operations; Journey status is a plus.
• Commercial dairy experience preferred.
• Proficiency with farm machinery and equipment.
• Strong teamwork and communication with diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work in varying weather.
• Willing to work variable hours including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Support daily operations of the organic dairy and cattle enterprises.
• Assist with grazing management and rotational grazing plans.
• Monitor herd health and milking operations.
• Train and mentor Dairy Grazing Apprentices.
• Ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance.
• Maintain records of herd health, milk production, and feed.

Skills

Team leadership

Communication

Autonomy

Time management

Machinery operation

Teaching/mentoring

Physical stamina

Education

Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship (Journey status)

Tools

Tractors

Skid steer

Haying equipment

Job description

Wolfe's Neck Center for Agriculture & the Environment in Freeport, Maine, seeks an Assistant Dairy Manager to lead daily dairy operations, mentor apprentices, and coordinate grazing and herd health. The role emphasizes safe, efficient workflows and hands-on leadership within a small, mission-driven team.

Reporting to the Senior Manager of the Dairy Program, you will manage milking, pasture management, staff training, and compliance while supporting on-farm research and community education