Farm Operations Manager - Dairy Specialization

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided on or near the;

Bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development

Access to modern dairy farming tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for a large-scale dairy producer in Klerksdorp, North West. You will oversee daily dairy farm operations, lead a team of farm workers and supervisors, and drive animal health, welfare, and milk production targets.

The role requires a qualification in Animal Science or Agricultural Management and at least 6 years of progressive dairy farming experience.

Qualifications

• A relevant qualification in Animal Science, Agricultural Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in dairy farm management.
• Strong understanding of modern milking systems and dairy farm technology.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations of the dairy farm, including milking, feeding, herd health, and breeding programs.
• Manage and motivate a team of farm workers, ensuring efficient task allocation and performance.
• Develop and implement feeding strategies to optimize milk production and animal health.
• Monitor herd health, implement preventative measures, and coordinate with veterinary services.
• Ensure adherence to all animal welfare standards and regulations.
• Manage farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring they are maintained in good working order.
• Oversee inventory management for feed, supplies, and veterinary medicines.
• Implement and monitor biosecurity protocols to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Track KPIs for milk yield, somatic cell count, fertility, and other metrics.
• Develop and manage the farm's operational budget, controlling costs and maximizing profitability.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable farming practices.

Skills

Dairy farming

Herd health

Nutrition

Breeding programs

Milking procedures

Leadership

Budgeting

Biosecurity

Regulatory compliance

People management

Education

Animal Science or Agricultural Management degree

Tools

Milking systems

Dairy farm technology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale agricultural producer renowned for its high-quality dairy operations, is looking for an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee their facilities in **Klerksdorp, North West**. This critical role involves managing all aspects of daily farm operations, ensuring optimal animal health, welfare, and productivity. You will lead a dedicated team of farmhands and supervisors, fostering a culture of efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in dairy farming, with expertise in herd management, nutrition, breeding programs, and milking procedures. Your responsibilities will extend to managing resources, implementing best practices, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring excellent organizational and people management skills. You will be responsible for achieving production targets, controlling costs, and contributing to the overall profitability of the dairy enterprise. The **Klerksdorp** location offers a prime agricultural setting, allowing you to apply your expertise in a challenging yet rewarding environment. We seek a results-oriented individual passionate about dairy farming and committed to excellence in agricultural management.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations of the dairy farm, including milking, feeding, herd health, and breeding programs.
• Manage and motivate a team of farm workers, ensuring efficient task allocation and performance.
• Develop and implement feeding strategies to optimize milk production and animal health.
• Monitor herd health, implement preventative measures, and coordinate with veterinary services.
• Ensure adherence to all animal welfare standards and regulations.
• Manage farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring they are maintained in good working order.
• Oversee inventory management for feed, supplies, and veterinary medicines.
• Implement and monitor biosecurity protocols to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for milk yield, somatic cell count, fertility, and other relevant metrics.
• Develop and manage the farm's operational budget, controlling costs and maximizing profitability.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable farming practices.
• Report regularly to senior management on farm performance and operational status.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Animal Science, Agricultural Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in dairy farm management.
• Proven expertise in all aspects of dairy herd health, nutrition, and reproduction.
• Strong understanding of modern milking systems and dairy farm technology.
• Demonstrated leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and supervise staff.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Financial acumen, with experience in budget management and cost control.
• Knowledge of South African dairy industry regulations and best practices.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays, as required by farm operations.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Accommodation provided on or near the farm.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Access to modern dairy farming technology and equipment.
• A stable and long-term career opportunity in a key agricultural sector.