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Herd Manger postion

Private advertiserOtherWhangarei, Northland2w ago
Dairy Herd Manager – 550-Cow Dairy Farm
Location: Titoki, Northland (30 minutes from Whangārei)
We are seeking an experienced, motivated Dairy Herd Manager to join our 550-cow dairy farm in Titoki. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled dairy professional who takes pride in animal welfare, herd performance and efficient farm management.
Our welcoming local community offers several great schools and active rugby and squash clubs, making it a great place to live and work.
About the farm
Our farm has a 230-hectare milking platform, predominantly flat contour and a 40-aside herringbone cowshed. We operate a split-calving system, with approximately 180 autumn-calving cows and the remainder spring-calving. We have an automatic drafting gate, cow collars for heat detection and health alerts, and grow maize and summer crops.
About the role
Working closely with the farm Manager and Farm owner, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the dairy herd and associated farming operations. You will need to work independently, use sound judgement, plan ahead and maintain high standards across all aspects of herd management.
Key responsibilities
* Manage the daily care, handling and performance of the dairy herd.
* Monitor animal health, body condition and welfare, identify problems early and carry out appropriate treatments.
* Implement and monitor calving, mating, reproduction and animal health programmes.
* Maintain accurate animal health, treatment and production records.
* Carry out milking and oversee dairy shed operations, ensuring milk quality, shed hygiene and milking procedures meet required standards.
* Conduct routine shed checks and maintenance, identify equipment faults and address issues promptly.
* Monitor pasture availability, feed requirements and herd condition, implementing feeding plans to meet seasonal requirements and production targets.
* Undertake fertiliser application, boom spraying, cropping groundwork and general farm maintenance as required.
* Manage environmental responsibilities, including effluent, nutrient application, soil protection and water efficiency, in accordance with relevant regulations.
* Coordinate daily farm activities and provide guidance and support to staff and contractors when required.
* Take responsibility for herd and farm operations in the farm owners absence .
* Plan ahead for seasonal requirements, identify operational issues and recommend improvements.
* Follow farm health and safety procedures and ensure safe livestock handling, machinery operation and chemical use.
Skills and experience
Applicants must have:
* At least three years of relevant practical experience on a commercial dairy farm, including experience in a herd management or other relevant dairy farming role.
* Demonstrated knowledge of dairy herd management, animal health, calving, mating and reproduction.
* Practical experience with milking systems, milk quality, pasture management and supplementary feeding.
* The ability to work independently, make sound decisions and manage daily responsibilities with minimal supervision.
* Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively with the farm owner, staff and contractors.
* A strong commitment to animal welfare, health and safety, environmental compliance and farm productivity.
* A reliable, organised and proactive approach with a positive, can-do attitude.
Relevant dairy farming qualifications are an advantage.
Hours and remuneration
A minimum guaranteed 30 hours of work per week.
A five-days-on, two-days-off six days on one day off roster applies, The roster may be negotiable for the right applicant.
Remuneration will reflect the successful applicant’s skills and experience. Pay, guaranteed hours and employment conditions will be confirmed in the employment agreement.
Accommodation
A tidy, self-contained two-bedroom flat is available and shared with another tidy staff member. We are looking for someone who is respectful of shared living spaces and considerate of others.
Pre-employment requirements
The successful applicant must pass a drug and alcohol test and undergo a criminal background check before appointment.
Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand and available for an in-person interview.
If you are an experienced dairy professional with excellent stockmanship, a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for farming, we would love to hear from you.

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