Assistant Farm Manager

Support daily farm operations at LUDF, overseeing herd and pasture care, and help drive high-performance, sustainable dairy farming.

Mo te tuka | The role

As our Assistant Farm Manager, you’ll play a hands-on role supporting the Farm Manager and helping deliver the Lincoln University Dairy Farm’s goals.

Based at our Lincoln University Dairy Farm (LUDF) on Shands Road, you will contribute to a high-performing, low-impact farming system and step up to lead operations when required. You’ll work with industry experts, advanced systems and a highly engaged team to deliver excellent herd, pasture and environmental outcomes.

Some tasks of the role include:

• Assisting with feeding, pasture management and irrigation
• Supporting efficient, hygienic and stress-free milk harvesting
• Helping maintain high milk quality and dairy hygiene standards
• Monitoring animal health, welfare and seasonal requirements
• Operating machinery, vehicles and equipment safely
• Completing farm records, reporting and digital tasks

Mahi & Wahi / Utu | Work pattern, location & salary

This permanent role commences 1 June 2026, based at our Lincoln-based Lincoln University Dairy Farm (LUDF). You will work an average of 45 hours per week (1.0 FTE) on a 5/2 roster.

Total remuneration package is $87,720 – $94,720 per annum, made up of:

• Salary: $69,000 – $84,000
• Accommodation allowance: $18,200
• Clothing allowance: $520

Note: Accommodation is not provided. This allowance is to support you in securing your own housing.

Ka tino Pukeka/Wheako | Essential skills/experience for the role

To be successful in the role you will have:

• At least three years’ experience in the dairy industry, ideally with herds 400+
• Strong dairy farming skills and excellent stock handling ability
• Confidence using tractors, motorbikes and farm vehicles
• Leadership capability, able to support and guide junior staff
• Sound decision-making skills and a collaborative, team-focused approach
• A commitment to learning, improvement and high-performance dairying
• Alignment with Manaakitaka and Lincoln University values

Ka hua ka riro ki a koe | What's in it for you?

Join a supportive, inclusive community that values diversity, wellbeing, and professional growth. Benefits include:

• Flexible, family-friendly work and free on-site parking
• Professional development & mentorship to grow your career
• Generous leave entitlements – six weeks of paid leave per year (based on 1.0 FTE)
• Annual salary reviews to recognise your contribution
• Eye care support – contributions toward eye tests and glasses
• Wellbeing support (free, confidential services via Clearhead)
• Southern Cross employee benefits
• On-campus gym with discounted membership
• On-site early childhood centre with staff discounts
• A social culture – friendly people, supportive teams, and plenty of opportunities to connect through events, clubs, and activities
• A vibrant campus: beautiful grounds, cafés, and a collaborative atmosphere

Mo matou | About us

Te Whare Wanaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University is a specialist institution dedicated to impactful research and higher education that supports land-based industries in New Zealand and globally.

Our campus sits at the heart of the Lincoln research precinct, complemented by university-owned farms and research stations that blend education, research, and hands-on learning. At Lincoln, students are at the heart of everything we do—we empower them to grow their potential and contribute to a more sustainably productive world through world-class teaching and research.

As a progressive university with an ambitious vision, we value a professional workforce that reflects the diversity of our community. Our staff engage with students, parents, government, iwi, and external stakeholders, upholding Lincoln University’s reputation through their work.

Our Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments begin with mana whenua. We honour our special relationship with Ngai Te Ruahikihiki and Te Taumutu Runanga, embedded in our He Tutohinga Whakamatau | Charter of Understanding.

Tono inaianei | Apply now

Ready to apply? Submit your CV and a cover letter that highlights your fit - tell us why you want this role and what motivates you to join Lincoln University.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels valued and supported, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

This role is only open to applicants currently in New Zealand with Permanent Residency, Citizenship, or an Open Work Visa. Applications that do not meet this criteria will not be considered and will be treated as spam.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis - apply early to avoid missing out.