Farm Worker - Fixed Term

Role overview

This is a six-month fixed-term, full-time farm worker role based at Invermay Campus in Mosgiel, Dunedin. The roster is 45 hours per week. The role sits within a busy research farm environment where sheep, deer, and cattle trials are carried out, and it reports to the Research Farm Manager – Invermay.

The position is ideal for someone who wants to strengthen their practical farming capability while contributing to science-led work. You will be part of a team of five and work closely with science teams to help deliver and maintain on-farm research trials. The work is varied and challenging, with opportunities to build technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, and broader people skills.

Key duties

The farm worker will support day-to-day farm operations and research activities, including livestock care, trial support, and maintenance of field resources. The role includes intensive lambing work, with fully recorded lambing events, alongside general farm tasks and assistance with livestock management.

• Support livestock handling and general farm upkeep.
• Carry out intensive lambing duties, including fully recorded lambing events.
• Assist science teams with farm-based research objectives and trial delivery.
• Help service field experiments so they follow the trial design and protocol.
• Maintain field resources so they remain functional and fit for operational use.
• Contribute to farm activities in line with good farming practice and trial plans.

What you will bring

We are looking for a motivated person with solid farming experience, a positive attitude, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Confidence around animal health, stock handling, and recording is important, and prior experience with TruTest would be an advantage.

• At least 2 years of farm experience.
• Working knowledge of animal health, stock handling, and farm recording.
• Experience with TruTest preferred.
• Background in fully recorded lambing beats, or a willingness to learn.
• Current full driver licence.
• Strong communication skills and a motivated approach.
• Ability to work on your own while contributing well within a team.
• Commitment to safe work practices and the safety of others.

What is on offer

You will join a supportive team environment that values innovation, collaboration, and a healthy work-life balance. The campuses are green, open, and developing, creating a pleasant setting where people can stay productive and feel supported.

About the organisation

The employer is part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – Maiangi Taiao (BSI), a newly formed organisation created through the merger of AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research, and Scion. Established on 1 July 2025, BSI brings together more than 2,000 people, including over 1,500 scientists and researchers, in New Zealand and internationally.

As one of the world’s largest publicly owned primary sector and environmental research organisations, BSI works to accelerate New Zealand’s bioeconomy through science, innovation, and commercial partnerships. Its work spans agriculture, horticulture, forestry, aquaculture, biotechnology, manufacturing, ecosystem health, climate resilience, and biosecurity, with annual revenue of around $565 million.

Application details

Applications are being reviewed as they are received, so early interest is encouraged. Applicants should submit a CV and a cover letter explaining their suitability for the role. The closing date for applications is Sunday 19 July 2026. For more information about the position, contact Jason Douglas, Research Farm Manager – Invermay, at jason.douglas@agresearch.co.nz.