Calving & Transition Manager
Job Title: Calving & Transition Manager
Location: Martock, Somerset
Salary: £35,000+ depending on experience
Contract Type: Full-time
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Calving & Transition Manager to oversee the management of our transition cows and calving operations at our modern high welfare 1300 cow dairy. This is a hands-on role focused on delivering excellent animal welfare, smooth cow transition through the dry and fresh periods, and strong calf health outcomes.
Working closely with the herd management team, vets, and nutritionists, the successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining herd performance, reducing transition-related health issues, and ensuring high standards across the calving unit.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all transition cow and calving shed operations.
- Monitor dry cows, close-up cows, and freshly calved cows to ensure optimum health and welfare.
- Manage and assist with calvings, including difficult calvings where required.
- Ensure excellent newborn calf management, including colostrum protocols and early-life care.
- Monitor transition cow performance including ketosis, milk fever, mastitis, retained cleansings, and fertility.
- Work alongside vets and nutritionists to implement herd health and transition plans.
- Maintain accurate health, treatment, and calving records.
- Ensure high standards of hygiene, bedding, and biosecurity.
- Train and supervise staff working within the calving and transition areas.
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in cow comfort, welfare, and productivity.
- Relief AI.
About You
- Previous dairy farming experience with knowledge of calving and transition cow management.
- Good understanding of animal health, welfare, and dairy herd performance.
- Practical, organised, and proactive approach.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong observational and problem-solving skills.
- Good communication and record-keeping abilities.
- Willingness to work flexible hours during busy periods.
Desirable Qualifications & Experience
- Agricultural, dairy, or animal science qualification.
- Experience using herd management software.
- Knowledge of transition nutrition and herd health planning.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary package
- Accommodation available
- Training and development opportunities
- Supportive and progressive farming environment
- Opportunity to contribute to herd performance and animal welfare improvements
How to Apply
Please send your CV and covering letter to Hayley Cobden at, [email protected]
Pay: From £35,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
