Experienced Dairy Assistant

Full Job Description

Join a fourth-generation family farming business in West Otago, where modern technology, tidy systems, and a supportive team create an excellent environment to grow your dairy career.

Located near Tapanui in West Otago, this is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Dairy Assistant to join a progressive fourth-generation family farming business. Milking 700 cows across 663 hectares, the farm combines traditional values with modern farming systems, creating a workplace where people are supported to develop their skills while working to a high standard.
This is a genuine all-round dairy role where you'll be involved in every aspect of the farming operation, working alongside a close-knit team that values communication, reliability, and good stockmanship. The farm uses modern technology including Cow Manager, Protrack, ACRs, milk yield monitoring, and SCC sensors to support efficient herd management.

Details:
 

• Start Date: By arrangement
• Permanent, full-time role
• Location: Tapanui, West Otago
• Pay Rate: $29.50-$32.00 per hour depending on experience
• Roster:
  • 6 days on / 1 day off during the six-week calving period
  • 4 days on / 2 days off for the remainder of the season
• Team averages 50-55 hours per week, with additional hours during calving
• Furnished two-bedroom accommodation available if required ($300)

Tasks:
 

• Milking through a modern 54-bail rotary dairy
• Animal health and general stock management
• Calving support and calf care
• Feeding out and general farm duties
• Tractor operation and machinery work
• General maintenance and keeping the farm operating to a high standard
• Working with Cow Manager and Protrack technology
• Supporting the wider team throughout the season

Requirements:
 

• Previous dairy farming experience essential
• Confident milking in a rotary dairy
• Good stockmanship and animal welfare knowledge
• Tractor experience advantageous
• Strong work ethic and positive attitude
• Good English communication skills
• Full driver's licence preferred
• Legal right to work in New Zealand (AEWV not available)

What's in it for you?
 

• Join a respected fourth-generation family farming business
• Modern technology and well-maintained farm systems
• Competitive hourly rate based on experience
• Great work-life balance outside of calving
• Supportive team environment with weekly communication and strong leadership
• Breakfast provided on weekday early starts during calving
• Fantastic West Otago lifestyle with easy access to hunting, fishing, tramping, mountain biking, and Central Otago adventures

Apply online TODAY and drive your Dairy career with The Max Team!
Why Choose Max People?

Max People is a trusted recruitment partner with 15+ years' experience connecting great people with great workplaces. What started in construction has grown into one of the country's leading labour-hire and recruitment providers across construction, civil, agriculture, dairy, manufacturing, and logistics.

When you join Max People, you're backed by a team that lives its values: Passion, Empathy, Optimism, Professionalism, Loyalty, and Empowerment. We're here to support your journey, champion your growth, and help you build a future you're excited about.