Dairy Farm Operations Manager

Northern Victoria · On-farm house provided · $175,000–$200,000 + equity pathway

About the Role

Reporting to the owners, the Operations Manager holds full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the dairy — leading both the herd and the team behind it. Part of the herd is housed in a compost barn, with the balance in a drylot with some grazing, while close-up dry cows and fresh cows are managed in a separate compost barn through calving.

This is a genuinely hands-on role. Alongside your management responsibilities, you'll work across all areas of the operation, including sowing crops and irrigating, and lend a hand wherever the farm requires it.

You will:

Lead, roster and develop a skilled team, including milkers, breeders, calf rearers, and mixer wagon drivers

Oversee the herd through every stage — breeding, calving, lactation and the dry period — maintaining the highest standards of animal health and welfare

Manage the breeding and reproduction program alongside the AI technician

Oversee feed and ration management to meet production targets.

Manage the compost barns and drylot, including bedding, and cow comfort

Plan and run cropping, forage production and irrigation to supply the dairy's full feed requirement year-round

Maintain accurate herd, treatment, feed and production records

Operate and maintain plant and equipment, and coordinate contractors as required

Lead safety on farm and ensure compliance with dairy QA and safe work procedures

About YouYou're an energetic, self-motivated leader who's happy to direct the team and get stuck in yourself. You will have:

Proven experience managing a large-scale dairy operation, including both herd and staff

Strong stockmanship across breeding, calving, lactation and herd health

Experience with mixer-wagon (TMR) feeding (highly regarded)

A sound understanding of cropping and irrigation for forage production

Solid people-management, rostering and team-development skills

Good reporting and computer skills, with the ability to work to a budget

A genuine commitment to safety, animal welfare and doing the job well

What's on Offer

A senior leadership role on a modern, well-established and supportive family farm

On-farm house provided

A competitive package of $175,000–$200,000, negotiable based on experience

A genuine pathway to an equity stake in the business for the right person, after demonstrating strong management capability

This position may suit a couple. There is scope for a partner with skills in HR and rostering, and dairy QA, to take on a complementary role within the business.