Dairy Farm Hand Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the agricultural industry, the role of a dairy farm hand is undoubtedly crucial.

As the demand for dairy products continues to grow, the need for skilled hands who can maintain, manage, and ensure the efficiency of our dairy farms becomes more pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a dairy farm hand?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the day-to-day operations of dairy farming,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable dairy farm hand job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Dairy Farm Hand Duties and Responsibilities

Dairy Farm Hands perform a variety of tasks related to the day-to-day operations and maintenance of a dairy farm.

They are primarily responsible for the care and well-being of the livestock, particularly the dairy cattle.

The duties and responsibilities of a Dairy Farm Hand include:

• Feeding and watering livestock; this may include mixing feed and additives and placing feed in feeding or drinking equipment
• Examining cattle for signs of illness, injury, or abnormal behavior; notifying veterinarians or managers as needed
• Milking cows, using milking machines or by hand
• Cleaning and maintaining livestock stalls, pens, equipment and facilities
• Assisting with the breeding and raising of dairy cattle; this may involve artificial insemination techniques
• Applying medications, vaccines, or insecticides as part of the livestock health program
• Assisting in the birth of livestock
• Moving and herding cattle
• Maintaining records on animals; such as weight, milk production, and any illnesses or injuries
• Performing minor farm repairs and maintenance tasks such as repairing fences
• Operating farm machinery and vehicles, such as tractors and trucks

 

Dairy Farm Hand Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and hardworking Dairy Farm Hand to assist with the daily operations of our farm.

As a Dairy Farm Hand, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks such as feeding and milking cows, maintaining animal health and safety, and operating machinery.

Our ideal candidate is physically fit, enjoys working outdoors, and has previous experience working on a dairy farm.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily milking procedures
• Feed and care for dairy cows
• Manage and monitor animal health and wellbeing
• Operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment
• Clean and maintain milking equipment and sheds
• Assist with calving and rearing of calves
• Maintain pasture management and fencing
• Adhere to safety procedures and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience working on a dairy farm
• Understanding of dairy production and animal husbandry
• Ability to operate machinery and heavy equipment
• Physical fitness and the ability to lift heavy items
• Availability to work early mornings, evenings and some weekends
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Room and board (for live-in positions)
• Opportunity to work outdoors and with animals

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dairy Farm Hand
• Work Environment: This is a physically demanding job that requires working outdoors in all weather conditions. The work involves early morning starts, and may include weekends and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Manager or Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if live-in)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our farm. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a brief description of your farming experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dairy Farm Hand Do?

A Dairy Farm Hand is a vital part of the operations in a dairy farm.

They work primarily in the care, maintenance, and milking of dairy cows.

The responsibilities of a Dairy Farm Hand include feeding cows, operating milking equipment, and assisting in the milking process.

They ensure cows are milked according to the farm’s schedule, which often requires early morning and evening work.

Aside from these, they also assist in the overall maintenance of the farm.

They help in cleaning the barn, removing manure, maintaining and repairing farm equipment, and assisting with veterinary procedures when necessary.

Dairy Farm Hands need to monitor the health of the cows, reporting any noticeable changes to the farm manager or veterinarian.

They must be familiar with signs of illness and distress in dairy cows.

In some farms, Dairy Farm Hands may also be involved in the process of breeding cows, assisting in the birthing process, and taking care of newborn calves.

This includes feeding the calves, helping them to nurse from their mothers, and weaning them off milk.

Despite the physically demanding nature of their work, they must treat all animals with kindness and respect.

The overall well-being of the dairy cows is a Dairy Farm Hand’s top priority.

 

Dairy Farm Hand Qualifications and Skills

A proficient dairy farm hand should possess the necessary skills and qualifications that comply with the duties of the role, such as:

• Experience and knowledge in dairy farming to understand the needs of the animals and the operations of the farm.
• Physical stamina and strength to perform strenuous tasks such as lifting heavy items, operating machinery, and handling livestock.
• Animal handling skills to manage the dairy cows, including milking, feeding, and basic medical care.
• Equipment operation skills to use various farming equipment and machinery such as tractors, milking machines, and feeding tools.
• Attention to detail to monitor the health of the cows, detect any abnormalities, and ensure the cleanliness of the farm.
• Reliability and time management skills to perform daily tasks consistently and efficiently, often starting early in the morning.
• Communication skills to work effectively with the farm team and report any issues to the farm manager.
• Problem-solving abilities to address any challenges that may arise in the dairy farm operation.
• Basic mechanical skills to maintain and repair farm equipment if needed.

 

Dairy Farm Hand Experience Requirements

Entry-level Dairy Farm Hands may not require any formal experience, but exposure to a farm environment or animals, such as through volunteer work or a part-time job, can be beneficial.

These individuals will typically learn on-the-job, gaining hands-on experience with tasks such as feeding livestock, milking cows, and maintaining farm equipment.

Dairy Farm Hands with 1 to 2 years of experience are expected to have a solid understanding of basic farm operations, animal care, and safety protocols.

They may have gained this experience through previous farm work or relevant education in agricultural science or animal husbandry.

Dairy Farm Hands with more than 3 years of experience are generally skilled in a wider range of tasks, including managing livestock health, operating heavy machinery, and maintaining complex equipment.

They may also have gained experience with administrative tasks such as record keeping.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the role often have significant knowledge of dairy herd management and may be ready to assume greater responsibilities.

They may have experience in supervising other workers, planning and implementing farm strategies, or specialized skills such as artificial insemination or veterinary care.

This level of experience may prepare them for progression to roles such as Dairy Herd Manager or Farm Supervisor.

 

Dairy Farm Hand Education and Training Requirements

A Dairy Farm Hand typically does not need a formal degree, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred by employers.

Practical experience is highly valued in this role, so any hands-on experience with farming or animal husbandry is beneficial.

In some cases, this experience can be gained through informal training, apprenticeships or on-the-job learning.

Courses in agriculture, dairy science, or animal husbandry from a vocational school or community college can be beneficial and may provide a competitive edge.

Understanding and knowledge of machinery and equipment used in dairy farming is crucial.

Therefore, training or certification in the operation of such machinery can be an added advantage.

Some farm hands may also choose to pursue certifications from recognized agricultural or dairy organizations to demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to the profession.

Physical fitness is usually a requirement due to the nature of the work, which often involves strenuous tasks and long hours in various weather conditions.

Knowledge of basic veterinary care, including the ability to recognize signs of ill health in animals and administer basic treatment, can also be advantageous.

 

Dairy Farm Hand Salary Expectations

A Dairy Farm Hand can expect to earn an average wage of $13.01 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual income can differ based on factors such as prior farming experience, the location of the farm, and the specific responsibilities included in the job role.

 

Dairy Farm Hand Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Dairy Farm Hand need?

Dairy Farm Hands should have good physical stamina and strength as the role often involves manual labor.

They should possess basic math skills for measuring feed and handling basic farm calculations.

Knowledge about farm equipment and animal health care is also important.

They should also have good time management skills to handle a variety of tasks in a timely manner.

 

Do Dairy Farm Hands need any specific qualifications?

Typically, no specific educational qualifications are required for a Dairy Farm Hand, but a high school diploma or GED equivalent can be beneficial.

Some farms may prefer individuals who have attended agricultural courses or have some form of vocational training in dairy or livestock management.

Prior experience in farming or animal care can also be a plus.

 

What should you look for in a Dairy Farm Hand resume?

When reviewing a Dairy Farm Hand resume, you should look for experience in working on a dairy farm, animal care, or with heavy machinery.

Any certifications in animal husbandry, agriculture, or farm safety can also be beneficial.

Signs of physical stamina, reliability, punctuality, and a genuine interest in dairy farming are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Dairy Farm Hand?

A good Dairy Farm Hand is physically fit, hardworking, and not afraid of getting dirty.

They should be able to work well in a team, be reliable and show initiative.

A genuine interest in animals and their well-being is crucial, along with the ability to handle stressful situations calmly.

 

What are the daily duties of a Dairy Farm Hand?

A Dairy Farm Hand’s daily duties can include feeding and milking cows, cleaning stables, maintaining and repairing farm equipment, and assisting with animal births.

They may also be responsible for monitoring the health of the livestock, helping to treat minor illnesses, and reporting any serious conditions to a veterinarian.

Other tasks might include driving tractors, moving supplies, or managing waste.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the real-world responsibilities and tasks of a dairy farm hand.

Surprised?

It’s not just about milking cows.

It’s about sustaining the agricultural industry, one task at a time.

Armed with our detailed dairy farm hand job description template and practical examples, you’re all ready to stride forward.

But why halt there?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your next move towards meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every task on a dairy farm contributes to the larger agricultural ecosystem.

Let’s nourish that future. Together.

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