Dairy Farmer
SOC 45-2093.00 · ESCO 9212 · OSCA 841233
Role snapshot
Overview
Runs a dairy operation including milking routines, herd health management, pasture rotation, and equipment maintenance to produce milk that meets quality and safety standards. This role involves comprehensive management of livestock, land, and resources to ensure productivity and sustainability.
Provides essential food products to communities, contributes to agricultural economies, and maintains animal welfare standards through diligent care and management.
On the job
- Oversee daily milking operations, ensuring hygiene and milk quality
- Monitor herd health, administer basic veterinary care, and manage breeding programs
- Plan and execute pasture rotation and feed management strategies
- Perform routine maintenance and repair of farm equipment and facilities
- Manage farm finances, records, and compliance with agricultural regulations
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
Formal education is beneficial, ranging from vocational certificates to associate's or bachelor's degrees in agriculture, animal science, or dairy management.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Dairy Farmer
Agriculture & Food
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
realistic · RCI
People who enjoy practical, hands-on work with animals and machinery, coupled with systematic planning and problem-solving, tend to thrive in dairy farming.
Personality characteristics
Conscientious
Highly disciplined and responsible, adhering to strict daily routines for animal care, milking, and farm operations.
Resilient
Maintains composure and focus despite unpredictable challenges such as weather, equipment failures, or animal health emergencies.
Practical
Enjoys hands-on work, problem-solving mechanical issues, and directly working with animals and equipment.
Organized
Manages complex schedules for milking, feeding, and maintenance, and diligently keeps accurate farm records.
Adaptable
Willing to learn new farming techniques, adopt technology, and adjust practices based on herd health or market changes.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy a physically active, outdoor work environment with animals
- Those who thrive on routine, responsibility, and independent decision-making
- People who are resilient and adept at practical problem-solving
Watch out for
- Requires regular weekend work and very early mornings, demanding a significant time commitment
- The work can be physically demanding and expose you to various weather conditions
- Income can be subject to market fluctuations and environmental factors
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Dairy Farmer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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