We are looking for a Stock Manager to join our farming operation in Te Pohue, this is a newly created role as the owner looks to step back from the daily responsibilities of the stock management. Ideally suited to someone with a few years shepherding under their belt and ready to step up to the next level.
This is a hands-on role with approximately 80% of your time focused on stock work, with the balance involving general farm work, maintenance and property management.
We’re looking for someone who takes pride in good stockmanship, animal health and welfare, and achieving strong stock performance.
About the role:
Working closely with the wider farming operation, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management and care of stock.
Your responsibilities will include:
Day-to-day stock management
Monitoring stock condition, behaviour and performance
Routine animal health treatment, including drenching, vaccinations, administering animal health products and attending to minor injuries and ailments
General stock work including mustering, drafting, weighing, shifting and handling stock
Monitoring and managing pasture condition and utilisation
Supporting stock planning and making decisions around feed, stock movements and performance
Monitoring stock water systems and ensuring reliable water supply
General farm repairs, maintenance and upkeep
Maintaining a high standard of animal welfare
Following and contributing to health and safety requirements and procedures
Keeping farm infrastructure, equipment and working areas well maintained
About you:
You will ideally:
Have solid practical farming and livestock experience
Be confident working independently and making good day-to-day decisions
Have a genuine interest in animal health, welfare and stock performance
Understand the importance of pasture management and forward planning
Be practical, reliable and happy to get stuck in
Have good observational skills
Take pride in upkeeping a farm to a high standard, including finer details
Be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
Have a strong commitment to health and safety
Take ownership of your responsibilities
Have a full driver's licence; relevant farming qualifications or experience with farm machinery would be an advantage
The opportunity:
This is a great opportunity for an experienced stock person who enjoys being hands-on with livestock and wants to take real responsibility for the health, welfare and performance of sheep and cattle.
The role is varied, practical and suited to someone who enjoys working outdoors, takes initiative and is motivated by seeing good results in the stock and on the farm.
The position also comes with a great range of lifestyle benefits, including:
A comfortable 4 bedroom home with 2 wood burners, new carpet, and ample shedding
Access to farm vehicles as required
Farm meat
A family-friendly working environment where we understand the importance of balancing work and family life
About the Farm:
Based in Te Pohue, Hawke’s Bay, the farm is 1155ha in total with about 1000ha currently being effective. Beginning in 2018, nearly 600ha of forestry has been harvested, and we are progressively returning this to pasture with ongoing fencing, fertiliser and weed control. As such, there are a few paddocks of 80 to 100ha, so a competent team of dogs will be necessary, focusing on quality rather than quantity. We run about 1800 Perendale ewes lambing at 145 to 150% and 200 Angus cows. A flexible approach is taken when surplus stock is sold.
To apply: Please send your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your relevant sheep and cattle experience and why you are interested in the role