1

Dairy Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Agriculture & Life Sciences Department: Dairy Farm Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories: Agriculture / Life Science This position is for a milk parlor operator. Duties are to assist in the ...

Preferred Qualifications Degree in Biology, Animal Science, Dairy Science, Veterinary Technology, or related area. Experience in shelter medicine and/or high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter surgery.

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

VA · On-site

$55K/yr

... dairy marketing, equine production, farm management, feeding management, meat science, physiology of lactation, poultry science, ruminant nutrition, swine production, and wildlife and fisheries ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dairy Science information

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do dairy science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for dairy science in Virginia is $47,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is dairy science?

Dairy science is the study of the production, handling, and processing of milk and dairy products. This field covers a range of topics including animal genetics, nutrition, milk quality, and dairy farm management. Professionals in dairy science work to improve the health and productivity of dairy animals, ensure the safety and quality of dairy foods, and develop new dairy products. Careers in dairy science can be found in research, farm management, quality assurance, and food technology.

What are jobs in dairy science?

Jobs in dairy science include everything from working as a veterinarian to farm and ranch management. As a dairy scientist, you research the production of milk on a farm. Your responsibilities include working closely with an animal as a vet or dairy farm worker to understand any issues surrounding its lactation. Other duties involve studying milk yields, improving animal welfare, and keeping animals healthy on a farm or ranch. Some dairy scientists work for drug companies to develop medicines and supplements for dairy cows. You can also work in a federal, state, or local agricultural department, creating policy involving the dairy industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dairy science, and why are they important?

To thrive in Dairy Science, you need a solid background in animal biology, nutrition, and dairy production management, often supported by a degree in animal or dairy science. Familiarity with dairy herd management software, laboratory analysis tools, and knowledge of regulatory standards are typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail are important soft skills for optimizing herd health and productivity. These abilities are crucial to ensuring efficient, sustainable dairy operations and high-quality milk production.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in dairy science roles, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Dairy Science often encounter challenges such as maintaining herd health, ensuring milk quality, and adapting to evolving regulations and technologies. Managing animal welfare and optimizing production efficiency can require close collaboration with veterinarians, nutritionists, and farm staff. Staying current with best practices and technological advancements, such as automated milking systems or data-driven herd management tools, is essential. Many dairy scientists participate in ongoing professional development and work as part of multidisciplinary teams to address these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Dairy Science vs Dairy Technologist?

AspectDairy ScienceDairy Technologist
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Dairy Science or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Dairy Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, farms, processing plantsProcessing facilities, quality control labs
Industry UsageAcademic, research, and industry roles in dairy productionOperational roles in dairy processing and quality assurance

While both Dairy Science and Dairy Technologist roles focus on dairy products, Dairy Science is broader, emphasizing research, development, and education, whereas Dairy Technologists typically work directly in processing and quality control. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within the dairy industry.

What does a dairy scientist do?

A dairy scientist researches and develops methods to improve dairy products, focusing on aspects such as milk quality, safety, and processing techniques. They often work in laboratories or production facilities, utilizing scientific knowledge in microbiology, chemistry, and engineering to enhance dairy operations and ensure product standards.

What is a dairy science degree?

A dairy science degree is an academic program focused on the study of milk production, dairy cattle management, and dairy product processing. It prepares students for careers in dairy farming, quality control, and industry research, often involving hands-on experience with livestock and dairy equipment.

What are popular job titles related to Dairy Science jobs in Virginia?

For Dairy Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Dairy Science jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Dairy Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Dairy Science job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 71% In-person, 19% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 619 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Dairy Technician
Job no: 536069
Work type: Staff
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: Dairy Farm
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science
Job Description
This position is for a milk parlor operator. Duties are to assist in the harvest of milk during the first session of the day. Operator prepares the milking equipment and bulk tank, milks cows, and cleans equipment and milk parlor. Operator is responsible for the detection of abnormal milk, or mastitis and record findings. Operator is responsible for basic maintenance of parlor equipment and some record keeping. The first milk session begins at 12:00 p.m. and concludes at 10:30 p.m.
This position also includes a precision feed operator. Operator prepares multiple Totally Mixed Rations (TMR) and delivers to the dairy herd. Rations must be precisely prepared and delivered using a TMR vertical mix wagon. Operator is responsible for inventory control in the preparation of all rations.
Required Qualifications
Knowledge of general dairy husbandry and milking procedures; Ability to operate farm equipment and knowledge of the harvest of milk and milk equipment; Ability to follow precise research and teaching protocols. Operate large farm equipment; Ability to perform heavy manual labor, handle mature dairy animals, and work in adverse conditions; Ability to communicate proper procedures to students.
Preferred Qualifications
B.S degree in Dairy Science or Animal Science. Experience in the preparation and delivery of a dairy TMR, as well as experience in the harvest of milk. Artificial insemination certification to assist in the breeding of the herd would be a plus.
Pay Band
3
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Regular
Salary Information
38,000 - 44,000
Hours per week
40
Review Date
06/12/2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. Department/unit is unable to support a visa for this position.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Mr. Shane Brannock at brannock@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: June 5, 2026
Applications close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Virginia Tech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Virginia Tech logo

About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media