Arable/Forage Operative job - Dorset

Job Opportunity: Arable/Forage Operative

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an arable/forage operative on our 130-cow dairy and arable farm.

We are a family-run farm located in Church Knowle, South Dorset, seeking an arable and forage operative to join our small team on an 800-acre mixed enterprise farm. Our operations include dairy, beef, and arable farming, utilizing modern practices on a landscape comprising both traditional and modern buildings, with a focus on grazing animals, producing our own forage, and sustainability.

Our crop rotation includes wheat, barley, oilseed rape, oats, and maize, grown on a 5-year cycle to support our livestock. Most machinery operations are conducted in-house, with silaging and hedgetrimming outsourced to contractors.

We rear and finish beef cattle, including breeds such as Aberdeen Angus, Limousin, Blonde Aquitaine, British Blue, and Charolais, crossed with dairy cows, primarily using home-grown forage.

This full-time role includes on-farm cottage accommodation. The position involves diverse responsibilities across arable, machinery, and livestock management. Previous experience in these areas is essential. Certificates in pesticide application (PA1 and PA2), ATV operation, and pivot steer qualifications are required. The successful applicant should work effectively both as part of a team and independently, maintaining high standards.

Key Duties:

• Assisting in overseeing arable enterprises, including cultivation (ploughing or min-till), drilling, fertilizing, spraying, slurry and manure application, mowing, and baling.
• Seasonal assistance with livestock feeding, bedding, and general husbandry for dairy and beef cattle.
• General farm maintenance, including fencing, groundworks, and vehicle maintenance.

#J-18808-Ljbffr