Job Description

Devon Dairy Farms | Hawea, Otago

Lead from the front in one of New Zealand's most spectacular farming locations.

Devon Dairy Farms is seeking an experienced and motivated Herd Manager to join our team in Hawea. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled dairy farming professional looking to take the next step in their career within a progressive and high-performing farming business.

Working alongside the Farm Manager and wider farm team, you'll play a key role in the day-to-day management of the herd, animal health programmes, milk quality, pasture management, and farm performance. The role is based in a herringbone milking shed, so previous experience in herringbone systems is desirable.

About the Role

As Herd Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Milking and managing cows through a herringbone shed
• Monitoring and maintaining high milk quality standards
• Animal health monitoring, treatment and record keeping
• Assisting with mating, calving and young stock management
• Pasture allocation and feed management
• Identifying and recording animal health and production data
• Effluent management and environmental compliance
• Operating and maintaining farm machinery and equipment
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members
• Contributing to a positive farm culture focused on safety, animal welfare and continuous improvement

About You

To be successful, you will have:

• Previous experience in a Herd Manager, Senior Dairy Assistant or similar role
• Strong animal husbandry and stock handling skills
• Sound knowledge of pasture management and feed allocation
• Experience with mating, calving and herd health programmes
• Good understanding of milk quality requirements and dairy hygiene
• Excellent work ethic, reliability and attention to detail
• A positive attitude and willingness to lead by example
• Current driver's licence
• Eligibility to work in New Zealand

What We Offer

• Competitive remuneration package based on experience
• Quality accommodation
• Opportunities for training and career progression
• Supportive and experienced management team
• Modern farming systems and equipment
• A fantastic lifestyle in the Hawea and Upper Clutha region

Why Join Devon Dairy Farms?

At Devon Dairy Farms, we are passionate about producing excellent farming outcomes while supporting our people to grow and succeed. You'll join a professional team that values animal welfare, environmental stewardship, health and safety, and continuous improvement.

If you're ready to build your dairy farming career with a progressive business in one of New Zealand's premier rural locations, we'd love to hear from you.