Dairy Herdsperson

Dairy Herdsperson

Job Description

We are currently looking for an ambitious, full time Dairy Herdsperson to help look after a 230-head purebred Holstein dairy herd and additional young stock. Experience in working with dairy cattle is an asset, but not a requirement. Barn duties will include managing 4 robotic milking systems, ensuring cattle are treated and cared for appropriately.  Breeding cattle would also be an asset, would be willing to help train in Artificial Insemination. Hoof trimming experience also considered an asset.

Applicant must be flexible in work duties and have good ability to work on own.  Must have good English skills, computer knowledge, be reliable and able to work weekends when needed.  Additional benefits will be offered after a probationary period.

Job Responsibilities

• Maintain and Manage 4 Robotic Milking Systems
• Monitor the health and well-being of the dairy herd (ie. identify lameness, sickness)
• Assess, administer and electronically document health problems and treatments
• Ensure that cows are fed the correct amount and type of feed
• Carry out breeding and/or artificial insemination using an automated heat tracking activity monitoring system
• Assist in preparing dry cows and heifers for birth, and assist in births when needed
• Follow a vaccination program and assist in herd health
• Knowledge of dairy cattle record keeping procedures (DHI, CQM, registration, cattle tagging etc.)
• Ability to follow SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures) for proper cattle and calf handling, colostrum management, euthanasia
• Transport feed and supplies
• Operate and maintain equipment (feed truck, tractors, front-end loader, skid-steer, utility vehicles)

 Work Experience

• Would like individual to have dairy experience, but any farm or agricultural experience is considered an asset

Skills & Knowledge

• AI (artificial insemination)
• Milking
• Computer skills
• Feeding
• Operating heavy machinery
• Recognize and report health problems
• Supervise others
• Class 5 Driver’s License, with a clean driver’s abstract, a Class 3 or 1 license is an asset

Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma
• Post Secondary is an asset