Dairy Cattle Farm Operator

The Berry Dairy in Maffra, Victoria, are seeking an experienced Dairy Cattle Farm Operator to undertake responsibilities associated with the daily operations of the farm and the management of livestock. 

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration available - between $65,000 and $75,000 per annum.
• Great working environment and ability to contribute to the success of the farm.
• Strong culture of training and support.

Task & responsibilities

We are seeking an experienced Dairy Cattle Farm Operator to undertake responsibilities associated with the daily operations of the farm and the management of livestock. Working collaboratively with your team to achieve consistent compliance with guidelines and policy, responsibilities of this role will include:

• Assisting with twice-daily milking (morning and afternoon shifts)
• Preparing dairy shed and equipment for milking
• Bringing cows in from paddocks and return them post-milking
• Monitoring cow behaviour and reporting any issues (e.g., lameness, mastitis)
• Assisting with feeding calves (milk and pellets/hay)
• Cleaning and bedding calf pens regularly
• Observing calf health and report concerns (e.g., scours, slow feeding)
• Washing down milking area, yards, and equipment after each milking
• Assisting with cleaning and maintenance of water troughs, feeders, and machinery
• Helping to maintain a safe and tidy work environment
• Assisting with feeding out hay/silage under supervision
• Operation of computerised systems and management of records
• Basic fencing, maintenance, and seasonal jobs (e.g., irrigation setup)
• Help with livestock handling during herd moves or veterinary visits

Qualification & experience

The ideal candidate for this opportunity will have:

• An AQF Certificate II or III (or equivalent) OR a minimum of 1 year of recent and relevant work experience in lieu of the formal qualification.
• Experience in the various responsibilities listed above.
• An exceptional work ethic.
• Ability to problem solve.
• A strong focus on safety and compliance.
• Physically fit to undertake the responsibilities listed above.
• Demonstrable experience adhering to regulations, policy and procedure.
• Intermediate communication skills – both verbal and written and an empathetic nature.
• Ability to work well within, and contribute to, a team environment, interacting respectfully at all times.
• Current drivers' license.
• Mobile plant operation tickets and/or experience preferred.
• Ability to take direction, whilst using your initiative and working autonomously where required also.
• A passion for working with animals.
• A great attitude!