We are looking for a Dairy Manager (or a Trainee Dairy Manager ready to grow into the role) to join us at Rainton, the farm behind The Ethical Dairy. Experience of working within a cow-with-calf system is welcome, however an interest in cow-with-calf dairy, and an appetite to learn more about this approach, is more important.
The successful candidate will be leading the day-to-day running of our organic, 100% pasture-fed, cow-with-calf herd. The role involves milking to a high standard with exceptional quality control, while working to very high levels of hygiene. Experience of working in an organic dairy system, and working to organic standards, is a distinct advantage.
Stockmanship matters more here than almost anything else on our farm. We need someone who is adept at identifying a sick animal and confident in identifying the appropriate treatment of animals, in accordance with organic standards. AI and foot trimming are both done in house, and we'd train the right candidate in both, if required. You will assist with calvings and follow our strict protocols for cow and calf management.
This is a novel dairy management system, so nobody arrives knowing everything. Whether you come to us with years of experience or strong fundamentals and real hunger to learn, you'll have support and training from David Finlay, the farmer who developed cow-with-calf dairying here, to help you find your feet and thrive.
You'd be working as part of, and in time leading, an established team, so good interpersonal skills are important. That extends beyond the farm gate too as you’ll be dealing regularly with our local vet practice, and guiding vet students in best practice when they're with us.
In time, this role will also involve working with our research partners to help others transition to cow-calf dairying. So, we're looking for someone with a real commitment to this way of farming, not just a willingness to tolerate it.
If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply, send a CV and covering letter to hello@theethicaldairy.co.uk marked for the attention of David Finlay.