Dairy/Livestock Manager – Watershed College 307 views

REPORT TO: COLLEGE HEAD

PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

The dairy/livestock manager is in charge of the upkeep and day-to-day running of the College dairy and livestock enterprises as a department of the College. The incumbent should plan and carry out the day to day operational aspects of the stock and livestock management, with the key objective being to maximise the productivity and profitability of the entities, without compromising animal condition, stock welfare or human resources. The person is required to uphold livestock management policies and all aspects of compliance and quality standards and adhering to budget and required criteria. The department compliments the agricultural education and training done in the Agricultural Diploma Course (ADC).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLILITES:

Manage dairy and livestock enterprises to achieve overall farm goals and compliment ADC education and training and supply of products to the College Dining Hall.
Overall responsibility for efficient running, cleanliness and upkeep of dairy and livestock enterprises to required standards
Special attention to be given to animal stocking ratios to ensure a focus on key classes of stock
To ensure target weights are achieved in a timely manner and that stock are presented in an optimal state to their given market
Standard dairy and livestock administration duties.
Welfare of all department employees according to College and Statutory requirements.
Record keeping including stock performance and live weights, animal diagnostics, stock tallies (monthly stock reconciliation), pest monitoring, hours kept by employees, and a full and comprehensive diary.
Monitor animal health status and maintain accurate records in accordance with College and department policies.
Ensure all animal health treatments are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines, specifically adhering to the outlined dose rate, stock suitability and associated withholding periods.
Abide by safe handling practices when handling and administering sprays, dips, drenches or any other veterinary products.
Ensure that the operating equipment in use is maintained and can be used/operated at all times in line with applicable standards.
Quality control of all aspects of facilities including health and safety, quality and best practice guidelines. Identify hazards and defects to ensure compliance to applicable codes, procedures and legislation in health and safety
Responsibly use resources and control expenses to operate within budgetary controls
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Higher National Diploma in Dairy or Livestock Management with a relevant professional qualification.
Advanced PC skills are required including Excel and Word; Access and PowerPoint are preferred.
Ability to contribute to a team environment, be a team player and add value to that team when required.
Must be well acquainted with the seasonal feed requirements of the key classes of stock in terms of the animal health. requirements and the ever changing feeding priorities. Must show a high level of stockmanship skills.
Excellent interpersonal, organisational and communication skills
Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize work.
Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities.
Demonstrated work experience of 5-10 years.
Experience of working in a similar environment would be an added advantage.
REMUNERATION PACKAGE:

A competitive remuneration package will be offered to the successful candidate.