Dairy Production Manager

About the Role

Join the dynamic team at Aoraki Dairy as the Production Manager (2IC), where you will work alongside an experienced Farm Manager to lead and support a progressive farm operation. This hands-on role involves active participation in all aspects of dairy production, including milking, animal welfare, pasture and feed management, calf rearing, effluent handling, and farm safety. You'll play a vital role in fostering a positive working culture, coaching team members, contributing to meetings, maintaining records, and stepping up whenever the Farm Manager is unavailable.

Responsibilities

• Collaboratively maintain and enhance milking operations and animal health practices.
• Oversee pasture and feed management, calving, and calf rearing activities.
• Manage effluent systems and uphold farm presentation standards.
• Implement and ensure compliance with health and safety policies.
• Lead and support the farming team, including training and mentoring.
• Participate actively in team meetings and record-keeping tasks.
• Assume managerial duties during Farm Manager absences.

Candidate Requirements

• At least two years of practical dairy farming experience covering milking, animal health, pasture management, and calving.
• A composed, practical approach with confidence to guide and motivate others.
• A strong commitment to animal welfare, safety, and maintaining quality standards.
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Familiarity with or willingness to learn farm technologies, record systems, and computer use.
• A valid full New Zealand driver’s license.

Additional Details

The farm is a certified organic unit located near Foxton, within easy reach of Palmerston North, spanning 196 hectares and managing nearly 500 milking cows in a 50-bail rotary shed that features advanced automated systems and Halter technology. The role follows a 5-days-on, 2-days-off schedule for most of the year, shifting to 6-on, 2-off during the calving period of eight weeks.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary package accompanied by accommodation in a warm, tidy three-bedroom on-farm house.
• Inclusive of health and life insurance, enhanced parental leave, and up to 4% KiwiSaver contribution matching.
• Additional paid leave during the Christmas period.
• Opportunities for professional growth through ongoing training and career development.

Eligibility and Compliance

Candidates must have unrestricted working rights in New Zealand and be able to attend in-person interviews. Those on temporary work visas are not eligible. The appointment is contingent upon passing a drug and alcohol screening and a criminal background check. Pāmu values a safe, inclusive working environment founded on core values of being Grounded, Genuine, Bold, and Shoulder-to-Shoulder.