Dairy Youngstock Manager with Relief Milking Duties job - Hampshire
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Dairy Youngstock Manager to join our team. This role involves overseeing the care and management of our youngstock herd, ensuring their health, growth, and development from birth to weaning. Additionally, the role includes providing relief milking duties and the moving of dairy cattle around the grazing platform, managing grass and forage programs, and handling general farm maintenance tasks such as fencing and water repairs to ensure smooth operations across the farm.
The successful candidate will be passionate about animal husbandry, demonstrate strong organisational and management skills, and be comfortable working independently and as part of a team. The position may require early starts to support the dairy team and the flexibility to cover other team members' holidays, which may involve a variety of tasks including tractor work, farm maintenance, moving cattle, and liaising with visitors on the farm.
As part of the role, the candidate will ensure that farming practices are in line with the Sustainable Farming Incentive and actively manage environmental schemes, working towards the farms sustainability goals and compliance with relevant regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee the health, nutrition, and welfare of all dairy youngstock, including calves, heifers, and replacement animals.
* Implement and monitor growth and health programs for youngstock, ensuring they meet industry standards.
* Provide proper care during calving and the initial stages of calf development.
* Manage feeding programs and ensure youngstock have access to clean water and appropriate feed.
* Monitor youngstock health, identify and treat any signs of illness, and work closely with the farm vet when necessary.
* Maintain accurate records of individual youngstock, including vaccinations, health treatments, and growth progress.
* Assist in the development of breeding strategies for heifers and replacements.
Grass and Forage Management:
* Oversee grassland management to ensure optimal pasture growth, including regular rotation, fertilization, and weed control.
* Plan and implement forage harvesting programs, ensuring that quality silage and haylage are available for youngstock feed.
* Monitor forage quality and manage the storage of forage to ensure it remains in good condition for use throughout the year.
* Work with the farm team to ensure effective grassland utilization and soil health practices.
* Provide relief milking duties when required, ensuring efficient and high-quality milk production.
* Operate milking machinery, ensuring cleanliness and functionality.
* Monitor cow health during milking and report any concerns to the farm manager.
* Ensure that milking protocols are followed for animal welfare and milk quality.
Fencing and Water Repairs:
* Perform routine repairs and maintenance on fences, ensuring they are in good condition to secure youngstock and other livestock.
* Manage and repair water systems, including troughs, pipes, and pumps, ensuring a continuous and clean water supply for all animals.
* Regularly inspect farm infrastructure, identifying areas that require repairs and maintenance to ensure safety and efficiency.
* Ensure that farm practices are aligned with the Sustainable Farming Incentive, including soil health, biodiversity, and water management.
* Manage and monitor participation in environmental schemes and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
* Collaborate with the farm manager and external advisors to implement sustainable practices such as crop rotation, hedgerow management, and conservation of wildlife habitats.
* Record and report on environmental metrics, ensuring targets are met and reporting requirements are fulfilled.
* Promote farm sustainability, seeking opportunities to improve environmental impact and resource efficiency across operations.
Flexibility to Cover Other Team Members:
* Provide coverage for other team members during holidays, ensuring farm operations continue smoothly.
* Assist with tractor work, including tasks such as fieldwork, mucking out, and other farm equipment operations as needed.
* Perform general farm maintenance tasks, including repairing or maintaining machinery and infrastructure.
* Help move cattle between fields, assist with handling livestock, and ensure their safety and well-being.
* Liaise with visitors, contractors, and external service providers on the farm, ensuring they are properly guided and informed about farm operations.
* Work closely with the farm manager and other team members to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
* Assist in training and supervising junior farm staff, ensuring they understand animal care protocols, forage management, and farm maintenance duties.
* Help implement farm improvements and efficiencies as directed by the management team.
Qualifications & Experience:
* Previous experience in dairy farming, specifically working with youngstock, is highly desirable.
* Experience with grass and forage management, including pasture rotation and silage production.
* Knowledge of fencing and water system maintenance.
* Experience with milking equipment and protocols is an advantage.
* Ability to operate farm machinery, including tractors and other equipment.
* Strong knowledge of animal health and welfare practices.
* Experience or knowledge of sustainable farming practices and environmental schemes.
* Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
* Excellent communication and team-working skills.
* A strong work ethic and ability to work independently when required.
* Relevant farming or agricultural qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Agriculture, BTEC, or similar) preferred but not essential.
Key Attributes:
* Passion for animal care and welfare.
* Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
* Physically fit and able to handle the demands of a farm environment.
* Ability to work flexible hours, including early starts and weekends, when required to support the dairy team and cover holidays.
* Flexible and adaptable to various tasks across farm operations.
* Strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* On-the-job training and development opportunities.
* Access to modern farming equipment and facilities.
* Opportunity to work in a collaborative and supportive team environment.
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