Head Herdsperson

Salary
£32,000 - £38,000
Head Herdsperson

Job Information

Head Herdsperson – Spring Calving Dairy (House Included)

Location: Near Shrewsbury, Shropshire

The Farm

Located near Shrewsbury, 270 spring-calving Jersey crossbreds. Our system is focused on efficiency and high-quality grass-fed production, supplying milk to Arla.

With a 24:48 swing-over parlour, good track and water system, and 325 acres of mostly grassland.

The Role

This is a "Head" role where you will take real ownership of the herd's performance. You will be supported by the farm team but will lead on the following:

  • Milking & Hygiene: Milking 7-9 times per week to a high standard. You will take responsibility for maintaining excellent Bactoscans and Somatic Cell Counts.
  • Herd Management: Managing all aspects of dairy hygiene and record-keeping of treatments.
  • Grazing & Land: Setting up electric break fences and managing the grazing platform.
  • Field & Yard Work: Basic tractor work including yard scraping, bedding, and occasional field work.
  • Travel: Occasional travel to our off-lying heifer and silage land (4 miles away).

Schedule:

  • Structured rota: 10 days on / 4 off or 5 on / 2 off.
  • Hours vary seasonally to average 45 hours per week.
  • Milking times: 06:15 and 15:30 (approx. 2 hours at peak).

About You

We are looking for a conscientious and punctual individual with a genuine enthusiasm for grass-based systems.

  • Experience: At least 1 year of full-time dairy experience is essential.
  • Attitude: A willingness to learn is more important than current ability.
  • Skills: AI qualifications are preferred but not essential.
  • Transport: Ability to travel between sites (Full driving licence required).

What We Offer

  • Competitive Salary: Reflective of your experience and responsibility.
  • Training: We encourage and fund ongoing training/courses at local vets or colleges.
  • Quality Housing: 2-bedroom house is available in local village.
  • Work-Life Balance: A fair rota system.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £32,000.00-£38,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Bereavement leave
  • Company pension
  • Free parking
  • On-site parking

Experience:

  • Dairy farming: 1 year (required)

Licence/Certification:

  • Full driving license (required)

Work authorisation:

  • United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 20/02/2026
Expected start date: 16/04/2026

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