We are a family-owned / medium-scale dairy farm worker job in new zealand located in [Region / District, NZ] (you can insert the exact location). Our farm is committed to best practice in animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement. As we grow, we are seeking motivated people who are ready to learn and help us deliver high quality milk production in a pasture-based system.
Position Summary
We are recruiting Entry-Level Dairy Farm Workers (minimum 30 hours per week guaranteed). This role is ideal for someone physically fit, with a positive attitude, who wants to build a career in dairy farming. You don’t need prior experience in the milking shed or pasture-based systems — we will provide full training. You must live on the farm accommodation (no drive-in options).
What You’ll Be Doing
You will support the farm operations under the direction of the Dairy Farm Manager. Key responsibilities include:
Feed & Pasture Management
- Assist with feed planning and allocation
- Monitor and control weeds, pests, and diseases in pastures and crops
- Help apply fertilizer and carry out irrigation tasks
Milking & Milk Quality
- Operate and maintain milking equipment and systems
- Uphold plant hygiene, cleaning protocols, and milking standards
- Monitor and record somatic cell count and milk quality standards
Effluent & Environmental Systems
- Operate and maintain the effluent system to meet regional council compliance
- Keep effluent management records, respond to faults, and troubleshoot issues
- Help the farm meet environmental best practices
Animal Health & Husbandry
- Assist in the herd health programme (vaccination, treatment, monitoring)
- Support calving, wintering, and calf-rearing tasks
- Maintain herd records; report unwell animals promptly
Infrastructure, Maintenance & Farm Business
- Support maintenance of farm plant, machinery, fences, buildings
- Assist in minor repairs, upkeep, and preventative maintenance
- Work with the Farm Manager in implementing the farm business plan
- Learn and adhere to all company policies
Health, Safety & Environment
- Comply with all health & safety procedures, wear PPE, and adhere to protocols
- Engage in environmental initiatives and sustainability efforts
What We Require from You
- Physically fit, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn
- A valid driver’s licence
- No criminal record; ability to pass a pre-employment drug test
- Eligible to work in New Zealand (citizen, resident, or suitable visa)
- Willingness to live in on-farm accommodation (shared or private depending on availability)
- Commitment to a minimum of 30 hours of farm work per week
- No pets allowed in accommodation
Desirable (but not essential):
- Some experience in farming or agriculture
- Basic mechanical or maintenance skills
- Interest in learning animal health, machinery, or environmental systems
What You’ll Get
- Guaranteed minimum 30 hours of work per week
- On-site employee housing (shared or private) with no commuting required
- Full training in dairy shed, herd health, environmental compliance, and farm systems
- Opportunity for growth — many of our entry-level staff progress into managerial or specialized roles
- Hands-on experience in all aspects of dairy farm operations
Work Environment & Culture
Our farm values teamwork, safety, open communication, and continuous improvement. We believe in supporting each other and ensuring every team member understands why tasks are done — not just how. Research in NZ’s dairy sector highlights that explaining context and purpose improves job satisfaction and retention. Rural Leaders
We also understand that farm work can be physically and mentally demanding. We strive to structure tasks with variety and learning opportunities, to help reduce burnout and promote long-term career paths.
Eligibility & How to Apply
Before you apply, please include information on:
- Your eligibility to work in New Zealand (citizen / resident / visa status)
- Confirmation that you can live on-farm accommodation
- A brief statement of why you are interested in dairy farming
- Any relevant experience (even outside farming) or skills
To apply:
- Send your CV and cover letter to [Insert Application Email or Portal Link]
- Use the subject line: “Application: Dairy Farm Worker – [Your Name]”
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview and a site visit
We aim to make a decision by [Insert Date], and the successful candidate will start as soon as practical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I commute instead of living on the farm?
A: No, on-site accommodation is mandatory. Drive-in or external housing is not permitted for this role.
Q: Do I need prior experience in the milking shed?
A: No — we will train you in milking, herd health, pasture management, and other tasks.
Q: Are meals or utilities provided?
A: [You can insert detail here, e.g. “Utilities are included; meals are the employee’s responsibility” or “We provide a meal allowance”.]
Q: Can I bring family or children?
A: No, accommodation is for the employee only. Pets are not allowed either.
Q: How many days off will I get?
A: You will receive yearly leave (in accordance with NZ labour laws) and scheduled rest days. (Note: farm work sometimes requires flexibility.)
