At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and motivate a skilled farm team while managing herd health and welfare.
- Company: Progressive dairy farming business with modern facilities in Southern Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, accommodation available, and a respected leadership role.
- Other info: Couples considered for practical support roles within the operation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on animal welfare and team dynamics in a secure position.
- Qualifications: Strong dairy herd health knowledge and previous management experience required.
Are you an experienced dairy professional with excellent herd-health knowledge? Do you have the confidence and leadership skills to guide, support and motivate an established farm team? Are you looking for a secure, long-term opportunity within a progressive dairy enterprise offering excellent modern facilities?
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Dairyman/Head Herdsperson to join a well-established and forward-thinking dairy farming business. The farm operates a large dairy herd and has invested significantly in modern cattle-handling, dry-cow and calving facilities. The successful person will take responsibility for herd health, veterinary coordination and the day-to-day leadership of an experienced team. This is predominantly a herd leadership position rather than a routine milking role. Milking duties will only be required on very occasional occasions.
Location: Southern Scotland
Salary Package: Circa £40,000 - £45,000 basic salary depending on experience + accommodation available.
Key Responsibilities:
- Take a leading role in the health, welfare and performance of the dairy herd.
- Manage and coordinate herd-health plans in conjunction with the farm's veterinary team.
- Oversee vaccination programmes and other preventative health measures.
- Monitor cattle closely and identify any health or welfare concerns promptly.
- Work alongside and assist the facility lead person of the dry-cow accommodation and calving facilities.
- Maintain accurate herd-health and treatment records.
- Lead, support and motivate the existing established farm team.
- Communicate priorities clearly and promote a positive working environment.
- Help maintain high standards of animal welfare, cleanliness and organisation.
- Liaise effectively with external contractors, including the farm's AI and foot-trimming specialists.
- Support the wider management of the dairy enterprise when required.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Strong practical experience within a progressive dairy farming environment.
- Excellent knowledge of dairy herd health, welfare and preventative healthcare.
- Experience managing veterinary requirements and vaccination programmes.
- Previous supervisory, team-leading or management experience.
- The credibility and practical understanding required to gain the respect of an experienced team.
- A calm, measured and motivational leadership style.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- The ability to lead confidently without being confrontational.
- A proactive and responsible approach to animal welfare.
- A genuine interest in securing a stable, long-term position.
Couple Considered: Applications may also be considered from an experienced farming couple. The second person could provide practical support within the dry-cow facilities and across the wider dairy operation.
How to apply: Please click on the APPLY NOW button. Please send your CV to Angel Bains - Recruitment Delivery Consultant.
We thank all applicants who apply for this role. However, please be advised that only those short listed for an interview will be contacted. Please be assured that your job application will be managed in complete confidence and your personal details will not be passed to any third party without your prior permission.
Head Dairyman / Head Herdsperson employer: Agricultural and Farming Jobs
Join a leading European potato breeding and seed business that values innovation and quality, offering a competitive salary and benefits package. With a flexible and autonomous working approach, this role provides the unique opportunity to shape the UK commercial strategy while fostering strong relationships within the potato supply chain. The company is committed to employee growth, providing avenues for international travel and professional development in a supportive work culture.
Contact Details:
Agricultural and Farming Jobs Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Dairyman / Head Herdsperson
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Agricultural and Farming Jobs often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Dairyman / Head Herdsperson
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Agricultural and Farming Jobs does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Agricultural and Farming Jobs
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Agricultural and Farming Jobs will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Agricultural and Farming Jobs.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Agricultural and Farming Jobs.
