Dairy Herd Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s modern agricultural industry, the role of the dairy herd manager has become more important than ever.

As the industry progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, nurture, and increase the productivity of our dairy herds grows significantly.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a dairy herd manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of dairy herd management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable dairy herd manager job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Dairy Herd Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Dairy Herd Managers are responsible for overseeing the health, feeding, and milking of a herd of dairy cows.

They also ensure the cleanliness and safety of the animals’ environment.

This role often requires physical strength, excellent animal handling skills, and extensive knowledge of dairy science.

The duties and responsibilities of a Dairy Herd Manager include:

• Managing the daily care, feeding, and milking of a herd of dairy cows
• Overseeing the breeding process, including the detection of heat, artificial insemination, and pregnancy confirmation
• Monitoring herd health and arranging veterinary care as needed
• Maintaining records of milk production, animal health, and breeding activities
• Ensuring the cleanliness of milking equipment and facilities to meet sanitation standards
• Supervising the work of dairy farm staff and providing them with training and guidance
• Managing the supply inventory, ordering feed and other necessary supplies
• Regularly evaluating and implementing changes in feeding and milking routines to improve productivity
• Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and quality standards

 

Dairy Herd Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Dairy Herd Manager to oversee all aspects of our dairy operation.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the herd, ensuring the welfare of the animals and the quality of milk produced.

Dairy Herd Manager responsibilities include monitoring the health and wellbeing of the herd, managing feeding and milking schedules, maintaining records, and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of all facilities.

Our ideal candidate has previous experience in dairy farming and a deep understanding of animal health and welfare.

Ultimately, the Dairy Herd Manager will ensure our dairy operations run efficiently, that our cows are healthy and well cared for, and that our milk meets the highest standards of quality.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage daily milking procedures and schedules
• Monitor the health of the herd and administer medical treatment as necessary
• Manage feeding schedules and nutrition plans for the herd
• Maintain detailed records on individual animals and the herd as a whole
• Ensure the cleanliness and safety of all dairy facilities
• Coordinate breeding programs
• Oversee the care and maintenance of all dairy equipment
• Train and manage dairy farm staff
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and quality standards

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Dairy Herd Manager or similar role
• Deep understanding of animal husbandry and dairy operations
• Ability to use milking equipment and machinery
• Knowledge of relevant health and safety regulations
• Good physical condition and stamina
• High school diploma; Degree in animal science or relevant field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dairy Herd Manager
• Work Environment: Farm setting. This role requires outdoor work in all weather conditions and includes physical tasks such as lifting and carrying.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Owner or General Farm Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. 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 cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dairy Herd Manager Do?

Dairy Herd Managers are responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of dairy farms.

They typically work for dairy production companies, agricultural establishments, or are self-employed individuals who own and operate their own dairy farms.

Their primary role is to ensure the health, well-being, and productivity of the dairy herd.

This involves monitoring the animals’ health, ensuring they are receiving proper nutrition, managing their breeding cycles, and coordinating veterinary care as necessary.

They also oversee the milking process, ensuring it is carried out in a sanitary and efficient manner, and that milk is stored and transported correctly to maintain its quality.

Dairy Herd Managers are responsible for maintaining records related to herd health, milk production, and breeding activities.

They often use these records to make decisions about feed ration adjustments, culling, breeding, and overall herd management strategies.

In addition, they may also be responsible for training and supervising staff, managing budgets, maintaining farm equipment, and ensuring compliance with relevant agricultural and food safety regulations.

Successful Dairy Herd Managers combine their knowledge of dairy science with strong problem-solving abilities and leadership skills to ensure the success of their dairy operations.

 

Dairy Herd Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Dairy Herd Manager should have the qualifications and skills that align with the job responsibilities, which include:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of dairy science and animal husbandry to ensure the welfare, health and productivity of the herd.
• Effective management skills to supervise farm staff, schedule activities and manage the daily operations of the dairy farm.
• Strong decision-making abilities to make the right decisions based on the health and productivity of the herd, as well as the economic viability of the farm.
• Sound understanding of dairy nutrition to formulate appropriate feeding programs for the herd.
• Ability to operate and maintain dairy farming equipment, such as milking machines and feeding equipment.
• Good physical stamina to manage the physically demanding aspects of the job, including lifting heavy feed bags and dealing with large animals.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills to identify and address issues such as diseases, reproduction problems and milk production inefficiencies.
• Excellent record-keeping abilities to maintain accurate data on each cow’s health, milk production, feeding, and breeding.
• Strong communication skills to liaise effectively with farm staff, veterinarians, nutritionists, and other stakeholders.

 

Dairy Herd Manager Experience Requirements

Dairy Herd Managers should typically have several years of experience in dairy farming, with a good understanding of animal nutrition, veterinary care, milk production, and herd management.

This experience can be obtained through working in various roles on a dairy farm.

Entry-level dairy herd managers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role on a dairy farm.

These individuals will likely have hands-on experience with milking procedures, feeding, and animal welfare checks.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have a deeper understanding of dairy herd health, genetics, and breeding.

This experience is often gained through roles such as Dairy Farm Worker, Dairy Herd Technician, or Dairy Nutritionist.

Those with more than 5 years of experience will often have some supervisory or management experience.

They may have worked as an Assistant Herd Manager or in a similar leadership role on a dairy farm.

This experience is invaluable for Dairy Herd Managers who will be responsible for not only managing the herd but also coordinating and leading a team of workers.

 

Dairy Herd Manager Education and Training Requirements

Dairy Herd Managers often have a bachelor’s degree in animal science, dairy science, or a related field.

This education provides them with a foundation in animal biology, nutrition, reproduction, and genetics, all of which are important in dairy herd management.

On-the-job training is also crucial as it equips managers with hands-on experience in areas such as dairy herd health, milk production, equipment operation, and herd record management.

Knowledge of milking procedures, disease prevention and treatment, as well as calf management techniques are also essential.

Familiarity with dairy software and technology for record-keeping and milk production tracking is a plus.

Some Dairy Herd Managers may also hold a certification from a recognized dairy science association or institution.

This certification, while not always required, is a testament to the manager’s competencies and dedication to continuous learning.

Further, experience working on a farm or with dairy cattle is often preferred.

This practical knowledge can help a Dairy Herd Manager make effective decisions concerning herd health, milk production, and overall dairy farm operations.

Continuing education and staying updated on the latest research and trends in dairy science are also important for this role.

 

Dairy Herd Manager Salary Expectations

A Dairy Herd Manager earns an average salary of $51,774 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary may vary depending on factors such as the size of the herd, experience in the field, and the location of the dairy farm.

 

Dairy Herd Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Dairy Herd Manager need?

Dairy Herd Managers should have strong knowledge of animal health and dairy science.

They should possess organizational and management skills to effectively oversee the day-to-day operations of the dairy farm.

Good analytical and decision-making skills are required to make informed decisions about herd management.

Proficiency in using technology and dairy management software is also useful.

 

Do Dairy Herd Managers need a degree?

While there isn’t a specific degree requirement to become a Dairy Herd Manager, having a degree in animal science, veterinary science, or agriculture can be beneficial.

However, extensive experience in dairy farming and herd management can also qualify individuals for this role.

Some employers may also look for certifications in areas like animal health and welfare.

 

What should you look for in a Dairy Herd Manager resume?

A Dairy Herd Manager’s resume should demonstrate experience in dairy farming and herd management.

Look for knowledge of animal health and welfare and experience in making decisions about feeding, breeding, and medical care for a herd.

Familiarity with dairy management software and technology would be a plus.

Any certifications or degrees related to animal science or agriculture should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Dairy Herd Manager?

A good Dairy Herd Manager is detail-oriented, ensuring the health and welfare of the herd.

They should be capable of making informed decisions based on the available data and observations.

Good Dairy Herd Managers are also compassionate and caring, as the job involves ensuring the well-being of the animals.

They should be good leaders, able to manage a team and ensure the smooth operation of the dairy farm.

 

Is it difficult to hire Dairy Herd Managers?

Hiring Dairy Herd Managers can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the role.

Candidates must have a strong understanding of animal health and dairy science, as well as experience in managing a dairy herd.

As a result, finding the right candidate may require a focused recruitment effort in relevant industries and educational institutions.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly entails to be a dairy herd manager.

And you know what?

It’s not just about managing cows.

It’s about stewarding the future of dairy production, one herd at a time.

With our comprehensive dairy herd manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why end it here?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to sheer excellence.

Remember:

Every herd you manage is part of a broader vision.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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