Assistant Herdsperson / Herd Manager

Job description

Assistant Herdsperson / Herd Manager A progressive dairy farm focused on cow welfare, longevity, and sustainable production

We are looking for a passionate and committed Assistant Herdsperson / Herd Manager to join our team. This role would suit someone who takes pride in excellent stockmanship, values cow comfort and health, and wants to be part of a forward-thinking, welfare-driven dairy business.

Our family-run farm spans 650 acres in South Cheshire, milking 400 pedigree Holstein cows in an autumn-calving system. Our approach is simple: healthy, content cows perform better and stay in the herd longer. We focus on…
• Maximising milk from forage
• Keeping cows grazing for as long as possible
• Investing in facilities that prioritise cow comfort, health, and longevity
• Supplying high-quality milk to County Milk

You will play a key role in the day-to-day management of the herd, with a strong emphasis on welfare, attention to detail, and proactive husbandry. Key responsibilities include…
• Daily herd management, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare
• Milking to a consistent, calm, and high standard
• Monitoring cow health, early identification of issues, and prompt treatment
• Supporting fertility performance and improving cow longevity
• Assisting with calving, transition cow care, and colostrum management
• Managing youngstock with a focus on lifetime performance
• Grassland management and grazing allocation
• Accurate and consistent herd record keeping
• Maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organised working environment
• Supporting and helping lead the team to achieve daily goals

We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about cows and takes pride in doing things properly.
Essential
• Interest in herd health, fertility, and cow longevity
• Experience in grass-based dairy systems
• Strong stockmanship and attention to detail
• Good communication and ability to work within a team

Desirable:
• AI experience (training can be provided)
• Foot trimming qualification
• Telehandler licence

Personal qualities:
• Calm, patient, and observant around livestock
• A genuine passion for high welfare dairy farming
• Motivated, reliable, and proactive
• Willing to learn and continuously improve
• A supportive and progressive working environment
• A farm that prioritises cow welfare and staff wellbeing
• Opportunities for training and development
• Accommodation available depending on requirements
• A chance to take real ownership and make a difference to herd performance

Based just west of Audlem, Cheshire, with excellent local amenities, schools, and a great rural community.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £30,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

Benefits
• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person