Dairy Manager (KH-11382)

About the role

The Dairy Manager oversees daily herd operations and leads a strong team across multiple departments, working closely with the herd crew, milking staff, feeders, veterinarians, nutritionists, and outside consultants.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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