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Dairy Farm Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FRAZEE FARMS

Be Seen First

Heavy equipment operator / maintenance on dairy farm

Pompey, NY · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Frazee Farms has an opening for a heavy equipment operator/ maintenance person for our dairy and cropping operations. Responsibilities include operation of modern John Deere equipment with hi-tech ...

New

Farm Systems

Dairy Data Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

You'll work with veterinarians, nutritionists, dairy scientists, farm operators, data engineers, and software teams to analyze biological, production, sensor, and operational data and turn it into ...

Dry Creek Dairies

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Dairy Farm Workers

Hansen, ID · On-site

$13.50 - $18/day

Laborers, Milkers, Calf Ranch labor, equipment operators. We have a great culture, and we are looking for great new employees. Company Description Great leaders grow great people!

Guida's Dairy

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

Guida's Dairy

$26.22 - CIP Operator

Huntington, IN · On-site

$26.22/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Kemps Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

Guida's Dairy

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

Cumberland Dairy

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Cumberland Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ... OUR OPERATORS FOR THIS POSITION START AT AN HOURLY RATE OF: * $ per hour SCHEDULE: 2-2-3 Rotating ...

Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

Cumberland Dairy

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Cumberland Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ... OUR OPERATORS FOR THIS POSITION START AT AN HOURLY RATE OF: * $ per hour SCHEDULE: 2-2-3 Rotating ...

Guida's Dairy

Filler Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

$21.50/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... LeeDairy isa farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative ...

Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

FILLER OPERATOR

Lansdale, PA · On-site

$30.58/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... Lehigh Valley Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ...

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Dairy Farm Operator information

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$12

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$27

How much do dairy farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for dairy farm operator in the United States is $21.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a dairy farm operator do?

A Dairy Farm Operator is responsible for managing the daily operations of a dairy farm, which includes caring for dairy cattle, overseeing milk production, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the health and well-being of the herd. They also handle tasks such as feeding, milking, cleaning barns, and managing breeding programs. Additionally, Dairy Farm Operators often supervise staff, maintain records, and ensure that all operations comply with health and safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dairy farm operator?

To thrive as a Dairy Farm Operator, you need practical knowledge of animal husbandry, dairy production processes, and often a background in agriculture or a related field. Familiarity with milking systems, farm management software, and equipment maintenance is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators manage workers and ensure animal welfare. These skills are crucial for maintaining herd health, optimizing production, and running an efficient, profitable dairy operation.

What are some common challenges dairy farm operators face when managing livestock health and productivity?

Dairy Farm Operators often encounter challenges such as monitoring herd health, preventing disease outbreaks, and ensuring optimal milk production. This requires staying vigilant for signs of illness, maintaining proper nutrition, and following strict hygiene protocols. Operators typically collaborate closely with veterinarians and other farm staff to implement preventive care plans, address health issues promptly, and adapt to changing regulations or market demands. Tackling these challenges effectively is crucial for maintaining both animal welfare and farm profitability.

What is the difference between Dairy Farm Operator vs Dairy Herdsman?

AspectDairy Farm OperatorDairy Herdsman
Primary ResponsibilitiesOversees daily farm operations, manages equipment, and ensures milk production efficiency.Focuses on caring for and managing the dairy herd, including feeding, health, and breeding.
Work EnvironmentFarm facilities, milking parlors, and equipment areas.Pastures, barns, and animal housing areas.
Required CredentialsMay require farm operation certifications or experience with machinery.Typically requires knowledge of animal husbandry and dairy cattle care.
Industry UsageCommonly used in dairy farm management and operations.Often used in animal care and dairy herd management roles.

While both roles are essential to dairy farming, the Dairy Farm Operator manages overall farm operations and equipment, whereas the Dairy Herdsman specializes in caring for the dairy cattle. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the dairy industry.

What are popular job titles related to Dairy Farm Operator jobs?

For Dairy Farm Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Dairy Farm Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dairy Farm Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,068 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Dairy Farm Operations Manager

North Smithfield, RI • On-site

Wright's Dairy Farm
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Wright's Dairy Farmexternal

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 1 hour ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead herd health, reproduction, milk production, and daily farm operations.

  • Oversee daily farm activities, manage farm efficiency, and monitor key performance indicators.

  • Build, coach, and develop farm team members while ensuring safety and compliance.

Job description

Dairy Farm Operations Manager
Full-Time I Onsite I $90,000–$110,000 Annually I Potential for Domestic Relocation Assistance (U.S.-based candidates only)
Lead One of New England's Most Recognized Cow-to-Customer Dairy Operations

At Wright's Dairy Farm, the work begins with our cows and ends with the products our customers bring home to their families.

As a fifth-generation family-owned dairy farm operating since 1914, we take pride in controlling the process from herd care to customer experience. Our Dairy Farm Operations Manager plays a critical role in that mission by leading herd health, milk production, reproduction, and daily farm operations for our 130+ Holstein cows.

This is not a desk job. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who wants to be in the barn, in the operation, and alongside the team. We're looking for a leader who takes ownership, makes sound decisions, develops people, and drives results.

Why This Role Matters
This position offers the opportunity to:
  • Lead a well-established dairy operation with direct impact on product quality and business performance
  • Partner directly with ownership to drive continuous improvement
  • Influence herd health, reproduction, milk quality, and production outcomes
  • Build, coach, and develop a dedicated farm team
  • Help shape the future of a respected, multi-generational agricultural business
What You'll Lead
Herd Health, Production amp; Animal Welfare
  • Lead all aspects of herd health, including daily observation, diagnosis, treatment decisions, and preventative care
  • Manage reproduction performance through heat detection, breeding strategy, and AI coordination
  • Partner with veterinarians, nutritionists, and industry professionals to maximize herd health and productivity
  • Ensure exceptional calf care and successful development into the milking herd
  • Monitor milk quality and production performance
  • Maintain accurate herd records and use data to drive operational decisions
Farm Operations amp; Business Performance
  • Oversee daily operations across barns, milking systems, facilities, and livestock care
  • Drive efficiency in labor utilization, feed management, and herd productivity
  • Monitor key performance indicators, including:
    • Milk production
    • Reproduction performance
    • Somatic cell count and milk quality
    • Culling and replacement rates
    • Feed efficiency
  • Identify opportunities for improvement and implement sustainable solutions
  • Manage farm inventory and coordinate equipment maintenance
Leadership amp; Team Development
  • Lead, Manage, and Hold Team Members Accountable (LMA)
  • Build a positive, safety-focused, high-performance culture
  • Schedule and oversee staffing for a 365-day operation
  • Train and develop team members on herd care, safety practices, and operational standards
  • Partner with Human Resources on recruiting, onboarding, performance management, and employee development
Safety, Compliance amp; Continuous Improvement
  • Maintain compliance with all animal welfare, environmental, and workplace safety requirements
  • Ensure audit readiness and adherence to farm standards
  • Identify risks and proactively address operational challenges
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives that improve performance, efficiency, and team effectiveness
What Success Look Like

The successful candidate will help deliver:

  • Strong milk quality and production results
  • Excellent herd health and reproductive performance
  • Efficient and well-organized farm operations
  • A safe and engaged workforce
  • Reliable execution of daily responsibilities
  • Continuous operational improvement
What You Bring
  • 5+ years of herd management, dairy operations, or farm leadership experience
  • Direct experience managing herd health, reproduction, milk production, and livestock performance
  • Experience leading, coaching, and developing employees
  • Strong understanding of dairy nutrition, animal welfare, and production management
  • Experience utilizing herd management software such as DairyComp, PCDart, or similar systems
  • Ability to operate farm equipment, including tractors, skid steers, and related machinery
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
  • Valid driver's license
Preferred
  • Artificial Insemination (AI) Certification
  • Dairy Herd Management or Herd Health Training
  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science, Agriculture, or related field
  • CPR and First Aid Certification
What Makes Someone Successful Here

You may be a great fit if you:

  • Prefer being in the barn rather than behind a desk
  • Take ownership of outcomes and follow through on commitments
  • Use data to make informed decisions
  • Hold people accountable while earning their respect
  • Thrive in fast-paced environments where no two days are the same
  • Enjoy solving problems and improving systems
  • Want to leave an operation better than you found it
What to Expect
  • Full-time, year-round position
  • Schedule includes weekends, holidays, and emergency response as needed
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions
  • Daily interaction with livestock and farm equipment
  • Leadership responsibility in a 365-day agricultural operation
Why Wright's
  • Fifth-generation family-owned business operating since 1914
  • One of Rhode Island's most recognized agricultural brands
  • Unique Cow-to-Customer business model
  • Opportunity to directly impact product quality and customer experience
  • Leadership role with visibility, influence, and growth potential
  • Collaborative ownership team committed to operational excellence
Compensation amp; Benefits
  • $90,000–$110,000 annual salary
  • Relocation assistance available for qualified U.S.-based candidates
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Vacation Time
  • Employee Discount on Wright's Products
  • Professional Development Opportunities
  • And More...
Ready to Apply?

If you're looking for an opportunity to lead a dairy operation, develop a team, and make a lasting impact on a respected agricultural business, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and tell us about your experience leading dairy herd health, farm operations, and people.

To learn more about the fun we have at Wright's check out our social media pages; Wright's on Instagram; Wright's Dairy Farm Facebook; Wright Scoop Facebook; Wright Scoop Instagram
Wright’s Dairy Farm amp; Bakery is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We operate a drug-free environment and adhere to ADA regulations as applicable.

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