Manager

AnonymousFarm ManagerEdendale, Southland6mo ago
**Job Description** **Role Purpose** The Farm Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management and performance of a 550-cow dairy operation. This includes milk production, animal health and welfare, pasture management, staff leadership, and effective use of technology including Allflex cow collars and a Protrack drafting system to optimise herd performance and labour efficiency. **Key Responsibilities** **Herd Management & Animal Health** - Manage a 550-cow herd to achieve production, fertility, and animal welfare targets - Use Allflex cow collar data to: - Monitor heat detection, rumination, activity, and health alerts - Identify at-risk cows early and take corrective action - Improve mating performance and reduce empty rates - Oversee calving, mating, drying off, and culling decisions - Work closely with veterinarians, AB technicians, and consultants - Maintain accurate animal health and treatment records (NAIT, withholding periods) **Milking & Shed Operations** - Ensure efficient and safe milking practices - Maintain high standards of milk quality and hygiene - Monitor somatic cell counts, mastitis levels, and milk quality KPIs - Manage Protrack drafting system: - Set up automated drafting criteria (e.g. heats, health alerts, treatment cows) - Ensure drafting accuracy and system functionality - Train staff in correct milking routines and technology use **Pasture, Feed & Farm Systems** - Plan and manage pasture allocation and rotations - Monitor feed covers, supplements, and dry matter intake - Make feed decisions based on production data and seasonal conditions - Manage effluent systems in line with consent and environmental regulations - Assist with budgeting and cost control relating to feed and farm inputs **Staff Leadership & Management** - Lead, train, and motivate farm staff - Set daily work plans and seasonal priorities - Ensure staff understand and correctly use Allflex and Protrack systems - Conduct staff performance reviews and on-farm training - Promote a positive team culture and strong work ethic **Health, Safety & Compliance** - Ensure compliance with New Zealand Health & Safety at Work Act - Implement and maintain farm health and safety systems - Ensure safe operation of machinery, milking equipment, and farm vehicles - Maintain compliance with: - Animal Welfare Codes - Environmental regulations - Employment and immigration requirements (if applicable) **Reporting & Communication** - Provide regular reports on: - Production performance - Animal health and reproduction - Staff performance and issues - Communicate effectively with owners, contractors, vets, and advisors - Use farm management software and technology to support decision-making **Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)** - Milk solids production targets achieved - In-calf rate and mating performance - Somatic cell count and milk quality results - Animal health outcomes (lameness, mastitis, mortality) - Staff retention and performance - Cost control and efficiency improvements - Effective utilisation of Allflex and Protrack systems **Skills & Experience Required** - Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in dairy farming, preferably at Farm Manager or 2IC level - Proven experience managing large herds (400+ cows preferred) - Strong working knowledge of: - Allflex cow monitoring systems - Protrack drafting systems - Strong people management and leadership skills - Sound understanding of pasture-based dairy systems - Good computer literacy and data interpretation skills - Physically fit and capable of farm work when required **Qualifications (Preferred but Not Essential)** - NZ Certificate or Diploma in Agriculture / Dairy Farming - First Aid Certificate - Chemical handling or farm machinery certifications **Personal Attributes** - Strong attention to detail - Proactive and solutions-focused - Calm under pressure during peak seasonal periods - High standards for animal welfare and farm presentation - Honest, reliable, and professional **Remuneration & Benefits** - Competitive salary based on experience - Accommodation modern 3br home - Ongoing training and professional development - Supportive ownership and modern farm technology **Farm Size (ha)** 170 **Peak Herd Size (cows)** 550 **Typical On-farm Staff** 2 **Position Start Date** 02/06/2026 **Accommodation available** 3 bdrm **Hour Type** week **Average Hours Per week** 50 **Roster** By negotiation **Remuneration paid by** By Negotiation

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