South Africa: STOCKMAN posted by Farm Manager SA

• Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Livestock Production, or a related field.
• Minimum 6–10+ years of hands-on experience in dairy calf and heifer management.
• Proven track record of achieving low mortality rates and target growth benchmarks.
• Prior leadership experience in a commercial dairy or livestock farm setting.
• Exposure to well-established dairy systems, whether local of international is considered an
• added advantage.

 
SKILLS REQUIRED
 

• Strong knowledge of calf health, nutrition, welfare, and biosecurity.
• Ability to train, lead, and motivate teams effectively.
• Proficient in farm management systems or digital record tools.
• Problem-solving mindset with attention to animal behaviour and early disease signs.
• Good communication and reporting skills

 
KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO
 
Young Stock Management

• Oversee care routines from birth
• Ensure timely colostrum intake and effective weaning protocols.
• Monitor daily growth rates and overall development milestones.

Health, Hygiene & Biosecurity

• Enforce preventive health protocols (vaccination, deworming).
• Detect and treat health issues early (scours, pneumonia, etc.).
• Maintain strict pen hygiene and implement biosecurity controls.

Nutrition & Feeding

• Implement milk and starter feed programs per growth phase.
• Collaborate with nutritionists to optimize feed formulations.
• Monitor feed intake and adjust for seasonal or health needs.

Housing and Welfare

• Maintain clean, dry, well-ventilated calf and heifer pens.
• Oversee grouping strategies and welfare-based movement plans.
• Ensure compliance with international animal welfare standards.

Team Supervision

• Lead and train calf care staff and feeders.
• Supervise daily work routines, shift plans, and labour schedules.
• Promote skill development and on-the-job training.

Record-Keeping & Performance Monitoring

• Maintain accurate records: birth, treatments, weights, feed intake.
• Use software/manual logs to monitor KPIs and growth targets.
• Generate reports for management on performance and trends.

Coordination & Communication

• Report to the Herd Manager and liaise with veterinarians and nutritionists.
• Participate in regular farm meetings and advise on calf-related matters.

 
 
ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted