Dairy Manager (KH-11292)

About the role

A large, progressive dairy operation in Wisconsin seeks an experienced and hands-on Dairy Manager to oversee daily herd operations and lead a strong team across multiple departments.

Responsibilities

• Employee Management: Provide leadership and direction to employees by organizing daily workflows, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring responsibilities are clearly communicated and completed. Assist in training, mentoring, and developing both new and existing team members to build a productive and efficient workforce.
• Parlor Management: Work alongside the management team and employees to implement and continuously improve standard operating procedures (SOPs). Monitor milk quality and production metrics, including daily milk weights, somatic cell counts (SCC), and antibiotic withdrawal compliance, ensuring high-quality milk standards are maintained.
• Herd Health Management: Collaborate closely with the herd crew to monitor and maintain herd health. Utilize DairyComp/DelPro to collect, track, and analyze data. Regularly walk pens to assess cow comfort and identify signs of illness or distress. Make informed culling recommendations and manage pharmaceutical inventory, usage, and budgeting. Work directly with veterinarians during routine herd checks and communicate with breeding personnel to support reproduction programs.
• Youngstock Management: Oversee the health, development, and growth of youngstock. Review and manage vaccination protocols and ensure proper implementation. Coordinate and manage weaning schedules to support smooth transitions and optimal calf performance.
• Feed Management: Participate in regular meetings with the nutritionist to evaluate and adjust feeding strategies. Utilize TMR Tracker to update rations, monitor pen groupings, and review feed data to ensure consistency and efficiency in feeding programs.
• Facility and Grounds Management: Maintain oversight of sanitation standards across pens and equipment. Work with management and staff to ensure facilities are properly maintained and functioning efficiently. Identify and report repair needs promptly to support smooth daily operations.

Qualifications

• 15 years of herd management experience on a progressive dairy operation
• College degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science, or related field preferred, but not required
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required
• Previous experience supervising and working with dairy employees
• Strong leadership and motivational skills with the ability to develop and support a team
• Solid understanding of herd health and animal care practices
• Proficient with computer systems and dairy management software
• Strong record keeping and data management skills
• Experience with inventory management and supply ordering