Dairy Production Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of growing health consciousness and food transparency, the role of dairy production managers has become increasingly important.

As the global demand for dairy products continues to rise, so does the need for skilled individuals who can efficiently manage, optimize, and ensure the quality of our dairy production processes.

But what exactly is expected from a dairy production manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the process of dairy production,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Dairy Production Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Dairy Production Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Dairy Production Managers oversee all aspects of a dairy farm’s production activities, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality milk production.

They also ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and promote animal welfare.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and coordinating all aspects of milk production, from feeding and breeding to milking and herd health
• Maintaining records of milk production, animal health, and equipment maintenance
• Implementing and monitoring quality control procedures to ensure the production of high-quality milk
• Ensuring compliance with government regulations and animal welfare standards
• Managing staff, including hiring, training, and supervising dairy farm workers
• Arranging for the maintenance and repair of farm buildings, machinery, and equipment
• Overseeing the breeding and raising of dairy cows to increase milk production and improve herd health
• Developing and implementing budgets and production plans
• Working closely with veterinarians to prevent and treat illnesses and injuries in the herd
• Coordinating the sale and purchase of dairy cattle

 

Dairy Production Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a competent Dairy Production Manager to oversee our dairy operations and ensure the production of high-quality dairy products.

In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the entire production process, from milk collection to the final product packaging.

A successful Dairy Production Manager should have a solid understanding of dairy processing techniques, machinery, quality control measures, and the ability to monitor and improve production processes to meet industry standards and regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the dairy production line.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and industry regulations.
• Implement and manage quality control measures and standards.
• Coordinate with procurement teams to ensure the timely supply of raw materials.
• Develop and manage budgets for dairy production operations.
• Conduct employee training sessions on safety protocols and work procedures.
• Monitor equipment and machinery for maintenance needs.
• Collaborate with other departments to optimize production operations.
• Manage and supervise staff, providing guidance and feedback.
• Prepare production reports and performance analysis.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Dairy Production Manager or similar role in the dairy industry.
• Knowledge of dairy production processes and industry regulations.
• Experience with machinery operation and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of quality control standards and health & safety regulations.
• Excellent organizational and leadership abilities.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• BSc degree in Dairy Technology, Food Science or relevant field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dairy Production Manager
• Work Environment: This role requires work in a dairy production facility. Some travel may be required for meetings, training sessions or industry events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Operations or Plant Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 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 Production Manager Do?

Dairy Production Managers oversee and coordinate the operations of dairy farms.

They are involved in a variety of tasks such as animal care, staff management, and product quality control.

They are responsible for the health and welfare of the dairy herd, ensuring they are well-fed, properly housed, and receive appropriate medical attention when needed.

This also includes supervising the breeding and rearing of calves.

Dairy Production Managers oversee milking operations, ensuring milking procedures are followed correctly to maintain the quality and safety of the milk.

They are also responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards in milking parlors and other farm facilities.

They often manage a team of dairy workers, assigning tasks, scheduling shifts, and providing training when necessary.

Additionally, Dairy Production Managers maintain records of milk production, animal health, and machinery maintenance.

They may also be involved in the planning and implementation of pasture management.

On the business side, they analyze production costs, monitor market trends, and strive for cost-effective production while maintaining high standards of animal welfare and product quality.

In larger operations, they might work closely with veterinarians, nutritionists, and other professionals to ensure the efficiency and profitability of the farm.

 

Dairy Production Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Dairy Production Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of dairy production processes and machinery to effectively manage production lines and ensure efficient operations.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills to lead a team of workers, maintaining high levels of productivity and morale.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly identify any issues or malfunctions within the production line and implement effective solutions.
• Excellent organization and planning skills to schedule production activities, manage inventories, and coordinate maintenance and repair work.
• Understanding of dairy quality standards and health and safety regulations to ensure compliance and maintain high product quality.
• Strong communication skills to clearly convey information and instructions to team members, as well as liaise with other managers and stakeholders.
• Financial management skills to manage budgets, control production costs, and contribute to the financial planning and forecasting of the dairy production unit.
• Physical stamina and resilience, as the role may require long hours and handling demanding situations.

 

Dairy Production Manager Experience Requirements

Dairy Production Managers typically require a Bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science, Animal Science, or a related field as their foundational training.

This education provides theoretical knowledge and practical experiences in dairy production and management.

For entry-level positions in dairy production management, candidates may need 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships, part-time roles, or even full-time roles on a farm or dairy production facility.

These individuals often start in positions such as Herd Manager, Dairy Farm Assistant, or Farm Supervisor.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have usually developed a more in-depth understanding of dairy management practices, herd health and nutrition, and dairy equipment operation and maintenance.

They may have worked as a Dairy Herd Manager, Farm Supervisor, or in other mid-level positions in the dairy industry.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field often have substantial leadership experience and may be ready to handle larger dairy operations as a Dairy Production Manager.

They may have previously held positions like Senior Farm Supervisor, Assistant Dairy Production Manager, or Dairy Operations Manager.

In addition to the mentioned, some dairy production facilities may require their managers to have specific certifications or advanced experience in areas such as Dairy Herd Improvement (DHI) programs, milk quality assurance, or dairy nutrition.

 

Dairy Production Manager Education and Training Requirements

Dairy Production Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, animal science, dairy science or a related field.

Practical experience is also important, and many managers have previously worked in a farming or dairy environment.

They must be familiar with dairy farming procedures, animal welfare, and agriculture regulations.

Training in business management and finance may also be beneficial as these managers are often responsible for managing the budget and finances of the dairy operation.

To achieve greater career advancement, some Dairy Production Managers may pursue a master’s degree in dairy science, agriculture business or animal nutrition.

Certifications in dairy management, offered by various agriculture and farming associations, can help in showcasing a candidate’s expertise and dedication in the field.

Continuing education and staying updated with the latest advancements in dairy production technology and practices are also beneficial for Dairy Production Managers.

 

Dairy Production Manager Salary Expectations

A Dairy Production Manager typically earns an average salary of $69,520 (USD) per year.

However, the exact salary can vary significantly based on factors such as years of experience in the field, the size of the dairy operation, and the geographical location of the dairy farm.

 

Dairy Production Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Dairy Production Manager need?

Dairy Production Managers should have strong leadership and management skills to lead a team efficiently.

They should have a good understanding of dairy production processes and the ability to implement and monitor quality control measures.

Analytical skills are also essential as they need to interpret production data and make decisions accordingly.

Knowledge about health and safety regulations in the dairy industry is also necessary.

 

Do Dairy Production Managers need a degree?

While it’s not mandatory, many Dairy Production Managers have a degree in dairy science, agriculture, or related fields.

Experience in dairy production or management is often more valued than formal education.

Some positions may require certifications in food safety or other relevant areas.

 

What should you look for in a Dairy Production Manager’s resume?

Look for evidence of experience in dairy production and management roles, as well as any relevant certifications.

Skills such as team leadership, production planning, quality control, and data analysis should be clearly highlighted.

The applicant’s knowledge about health and safety regulations in the dairy industry should also be apparent from their resume.

 

What qualities make a good Dairy Production Manager?

A good Dairy Production Manager should have strong leadership abilities, excellent decision-making skills, and the ability to work under pressure.

They should have a keen eye for detail to identify potential issues in the production process and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Good communication skills are also important as they need to liaise with different departments, employees, and external stakeholders.

 

What are the daily duties of a Dairy Production Manager?

A Dairy Production Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a dairy production facility.

This includes managing staff, planning and organizing production schedules, ensuring quality control and safety standards are met, monitoring production processes, troubleshooting issues, analyzing production data, and implementing improvements in processes.

They also liaise with other departments such as sales and supply chain to ensure smooth operations.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug into the nitty-gritty of what it truly means to be a Dairy Production Manager.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about managing cows and milk.

It’s about orchestrating the entire dairy production process, from the pasture to the dairy aisle.

With our comprehensive Dairy Production Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Drill down further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating detailed job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Keep this in mind:

Every gallon of milk tells a bigger story.

Let’s create that story. Together.

How to Become a Dairy Production Manager (Complete Guide)

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