Herdsperson

Working alongside the Farm Manager and Dairy Team, the Herdsperson will maintain the highest standards of animal husbandry, contribute to continuous improvement and support the College’s commitment to sustainable food production and precision livestock farming.

Benefits: onsite accommodation (value £24,000 p.a), Local Government Pension Scheme with 15% employer contributions, access to our Electric Vehicle scheme, Cycle to Work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, generous annual leave entitlement of 26 days plus 8 statutory days, TOTUM card, eligibility to apply for a Blue Light Card, and more  

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a forward-thinking college farm where high welfare, sustainable farming, and food production are at the heart of everything we do. Working within our 250-cow dairy herd, you will play an important role in the daily running of the unit while contributing to the development and delivery of the College’s sustainable farm strategy.  

You will join a dedicated three-person dairy team where every member has an important role to play in maintaining high standards, improving performance, and developing the future of the farm.  

This role would suit someone who is passionate about dairy farming, takes pride in excellent cattle husbandry, and is looking to develop their skills and knowledge. We are particularly keen to hear from someone with ambition to progress towards a future role as a Dairy Manager or Team Leader.  

The opportunity  

At Plumpton College, we believe in investing in people. This role provides the opportunity to:  

• Develop your practical dairy skills and knowledge within a progressive commercial herd 

• Build experience across herd health, fertility, nutrition, and youngstock management 

• Contribute to improving sustainability and environmental performance on the farm 

• Develop leadership skills and confidence working with colleagues and students 

• Be supported through continuous professional development and career progression opportunities  

What you’ll be doing  

You will play a key role in the day-to-day operation of the College’s 250-cow dairy herd, including:  

• Supporting herd health, milking routines, and youngstock rearing 

• Carrying out daily husbandry tasks including milking, feeding, stock health work, record keeping, cattle movements, weighing, and selection 

• Maintaining high standards of cow welfare, including mobility, fertility, and nutrition 

• Assisting with stock control, biosecurity, and maintaining a clean, safe, and organised working environment 

• Supporting the maintenance and tidiness of equipment, machinery, and dairy facilities 

• Helping deliver practical student activities, including supervising students during routine duties and supporting practical classes 

• Contributing to general farm duties across the wider College Farm when required 

• Communicating effectively with colleagues and contributing to team meetings 

• Following College health and safety requirements and promoting best practice 

• Contributing to farm development planning and working collaboratively across the College Estate 

• Taking part in appraisal and continuous professional development activities  

What you’ll bring  

Essential  

• Previous experience working on a dairy unit 

• Excellent cattle husbandry skills with a proven commitment to high welfare standards 

• Competence in foot trimming 

• Experience working with cattle, including milking, and feeding 

• Ability to maintain accurate and reliable records 

• Clear communication skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues and students 

• Telehandler certificate 

• Ability to work independently and manage your own time effectively