New

Dairy Farm Herd Manager

North Carolina State University

$61,938 - $65,000

life insurance, flexible benefit account, paid time off

United States, North Carolina, Raleigh

Mar 27, 2026

Posting Information

Posting Number	PG194552EP
Internal Recruitment	No
Working Title	Dairy Farm Herd Manager
Anticipated Hiring Range	$61,938 - $65,000
Work Schedule	Monday - Friday, 7am - 4pm; other shift work as necessary to care for herd.
Job Location	Raleigh, NC
Department	Dairy Enterprise System (DES)
About the Department	The Dairy Enterprise System ( DES) is a commodity-based operational unit within the Dept of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences ( FBNS) consisting of the Lake Wheeler Dairy Farm, the Feldmeier Dairy Processing Lab, Randleigh Dairy Heritage Museum, and the Dairy Education Center located at the entrance of the Dairy Farm. The individual units participate in Teaching, Research, Extension of dairy sciences and technology encompassing the production farm and dairy processing facility. Outreach to the general public is accomplished through the Dairy Education Center where all components of dairy are highlighted as an educational tool for university students and all aspects of the general population.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits	As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer: Medical, Dental, and Vision Flexible Spending Account Retirement Programs Disability Plans Life Insurance Accident Plan Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs 12 Holidays Each Year Tuition and Academic Assistance And so much more! Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties	The Dairy Farm Herd Manager plays a vital role in leading the health, performance, and overall success of the dairy herd. This position oversees all aspects of herd management, including animal health, reproduction (AI, palpation), calving, nutrition, feeding, milking, and data-driven decision-making. The Herd Manager is key to advancing animal welfare, optimizing production, and strengthening the herd's genetic program. Working closely with the attending veterinarian and in partnership with the Farm Operations Manager, this role combines hands-on animal care with independent decision-making. The Herd Manager also supports the farm's mission as a hub for research and teaching, ensuring all activities meet regulatory standards (including IACUC) and contributing to the development of innovative, animal-based research projects. Herd Health, Production & Operations Lead the day-to-day management of the dairy herd and facilities. Oversee nutrition, reproduction, milking, calving, housing, and animal comfort to ensure high performance and welfare standards. Manage AI and genetic programs to support long-term herd improvement. Serve as the primary point of contact for veterinary care and ensure proper use and compliance of all treatments and medications. Plan and coordinate operational needs, including inventory, equipment, and facility readiness. Research & Data Management Help operate the farm as a dynamic, real-world research environment supporting multiple studies. Utilize herd management and nutrition software to track performance and generate reports on reproduction, production, and health trends. Identify opportunities to improve data quality and research accuracy. Collaborate with researchers to design protocols, manage data collection, and contribute to analysis, reporting, and publications. Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance Champion high standards in animal welfare, safety, and regulatory compliance. Ensure adherence to IACUC guidelines, FDA/USDA requirements, and Grade A milk standards. Maintain accurate records, drug tracking systems, and documentation to support inspections and research activities. Promote a culture of safety, biosecurity, and continuous improvement. Training & Collaboration Mentor and train students, staff, and research personnel in dairy management and animal care practices. Support hands-on teaching labs and demonstrations. Partner with faculty, veterinarians, and industry professionals to advance research and share knowledge. Communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders and stay current with advancements in dairy science.
Other Responsibilities	Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience	Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Other Required Qualifications	BS in Dairy Science or Animal Science or equivalent experience in dairy farm management.
Preferred Qualifications	Dairy farm herd management experience.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)	Valid Driver's License required. Valid NC Driver's License within 60 days of hire.
Valid NC Driver's License required	No
Commercial Driver's License required	No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date	03/27/2026
Anticipated Close Date	Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants	Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Position Details

Position Number	00041751
Position Type	EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)	1.0
Appointment	12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather	Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events	Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID	111102 - Dairy And Process Applications
EEO	NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.