Herdsperson - Goat Dairy Farm

Idyll Farms; Northport (MI); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

Short Term Disability Insurance

Job summary

Idyll Farms, a regenerative goat dairy on Lake Michigan, seeks a full-time Dairy Herdsperson to care for the herd, maintain facilities, and support daily farm operations. The role rewards hands-on animal welfare, health monitoring, and efficient pasture management in all seasons.

Responsibilities include milking, feeding, equipment operation, grazing management, and basic maintenance. A valid driver’s license and willingness to work outdoors are required; compensation reflects market norms for

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Experience on a goat dairy or livestock operation preferred.
• Ability to operate tractors and farm equipment safely.
• Strong problem-solving and time management skills.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all seasons.

Responsibilities

• Milk goats according to schedule while maintaining proper dairy sanitation standards.
• Feed and tend animals to ensure optimal nutrition and welfare.
• Monitor herd health and assist with treatment when necessary.
• Clean and maintain barns, milking parlor, and farm facilities.
• Manage rotational grazing, including setting and repairing fencing.
• Safely operate tractors, skid steers, and hay equipment.
• Perform basic maintenance on dairy equipment.
• Receive and properly store farm goods and supplies.
• Maintain organized grounds and facilities.

Skills

Dairy farming

Livestock care

Equipment operation

Time management

Problem solving

Patient with livestock

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Tractor operation

Microsoft Office

Job description

Join a world-class, award-winning regenerative goat dairy located on the pristine shores of Lake Michigan.

We are seeking a full-time Dairy Herdsperson to play a vital role in the daily care, health, and productivity of our dairy goat herd.

This is a hands-on, physically active position for someone who takes pride in animal welfare, land stewardship, and working outdoors in all seasons.

Idyll Farms is a 500-acre regenerative goat dairy and creamery in Northport, Michigan. We raise Certified Humane® Alpine goats on rotationally grazed pastures rich in Great Lakes terroir. Our regenerative approach rebuilds soil health, increases biodiversity, and sequesters carbon — producing exceptional milk that is crafted into internationally award winning cheeses.

Schedule

Monday–Friday, with weekends as necessary.

Key Responsibilities (include but are not limited to)

• Milk goats according to schedule while maintaining proper dairy sanitation standards
• Feed and tend animals to ensure optimal nutrition and welfare
• Monitor herd health and assist with treatment when necessary
• Clean and maintain barns, milking parlor, and farm facilities
• Manage rotational grazing, including setting and repairing fencing
• Safely operate tractors, skid steers, and hay equipment
• Perform basic maintenance on dairy equipment
• Receive and properly store farm goods and supplies
• Maintain organized grounds and facilities

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Valid driver’s license required
• 0–2 years’ experience working on a goat dairy or livestock operation preferred
• Experience milking and providing basic herd care preferred
• Ability to operate tractors and farm equipment safely
• Strong problem-solving and time management skills
• Ability to work patiently and confidently with livestock
• Basic knowledge of dairy operations and sanitation standards
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office preferred

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding, outdoor agricultural role. The employee will:

• Regularly lift, push, or carry up to 75 lbs
• Stand and walk on uneven terrain for extended periods
• Bend, kneel, stoop, and crouch frequently
• Work in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow, wind)
• Work around livestock and moving mechanical equipment

Live and work in one of Michigan’s most beautiful coastal communities

Benefits Offered

• Paid Time Off
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Short Term Disability Insurance

Idyll Farms is an Equal Opportunity Employer