Lead Calf & Youngstock Rearer
Near Taunton, Somerset | £30,000–£40,000 per year | Every other weekend off
We are looking for a capable and caring Lead Calf and Youngstock Rearer to take ownership of calf care on our progressive, family-run dairy farm near Taunton.
This is an important, hands-on role for someone who takes pride in achieving excellent standards of calf health, welfare and performance. You will work closely with the farm owners and senior team, with the opportunity to have a genuine influence on how our youngstock are managed.
About Newley Farm
We milk 550 Holsteins and 150 Jerseys through a modern 40:40 BouMatic parlour, producing milk for Saputo’s Cathedral City cheese.
Our dairy and youngstock facilities have been purpose-built within the past eight years, providing an excellent working environment for both our animals and our team.
The role
You will be responsible for helping to deliver consistently high standards of care from birth through to weaning, including:
- Overseeing newborn calf care and the transition from the calving unit
- Delivering effective and timely colostrum management
- Monitoring calf health, growth and performance
- Maintaining excellent standards of cleanliness, hygiene and biosecurity
- Following established health and feeding protocols
- Administering medicines and vaccinations accurately and responsibly
- Keeping clear and accurate treatment and performance records
- Identifying illness early and responding appropriately
- Supporting calving, dry-cow and transition-cow management
- Communicating clearly with farm owners, vets and other members of the team
- Helping to improve systems and achieve the best possible outcomes for our calves
About you
We are looking for someone who:
- Is dependable, positive and proactive
- Notices the small details and takes pride in doing things properly
- Has a genuine passion for calf health and animal welfare
- Communicates well and contributes positively to the wider team
- Is confident following protocols and maintaining accurate records
- Takes ownership of their responsibilities and responds calmly when challenges arise
- Is interested in learning, developing and continually improving results
- All applicants must be able to travel reliably to the farm for all required shifts
Previous calf or youngstock experience is strongly preferred for the lead position. However, we would also consider a less-experienced candidate with the right attitude, livestock skills and potential to develop under the guidance of our experienced team.
A full UK driving licence is essential. A telehandler certificate and tractor-driving experience would be helpful but are not essential, as further training can be provided.
What we offer
- Salary of £30,000–£40,000, depending on experience
- Every other weekend off
- One additional weekday off each week
- An average working week of approximately 45–55 hours
- 20 days’ holiday plus bank holidays
- Workplace pension
- Modern, purpose-built facilities
- Support from an experienced and approachable team
- Training and opportunities to develop your skills and responsibilities
- A long-term position in which your work will be valued
A furnished on-farm cabin may be available for the successful candidate, if required. Further details can be discussed during the application process.
The expected start date is early September 2026, although we are happy to discuss this with the right candidate.
To apply, please send us your CV along with a short message explaining your experience with calves or livestock, why this role interests you, and what you believe excellent calf care looks like.
You can see more of life at Newley Farm on Instagram: @newleyfarm
Pay: £30,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
