Dairy Herd Manager

As a Dairy Herd Manager you are responsible for the day-to-day running of a grass-based dairy enterprise, overseeing the health, nutrition, breeding and milking of the herd throughout the year. You monitor milk quality and yields, manage grassland rotation and silage production, and ensure the farm operates in line with animal welfare and environmental regulations. You work closely with veterinary practitioners, Teagasc advisors, artificial insemination technicians and milk purchasers such as co-operatives like Glanbia or Dairygold. Record-keeping, herd fertility programmes and compliance with nitrates regulations are a central part of the role, particularly during the busy spring calving season.

A Leaving Certificate with subjects such as Agricultural Science, Biology and Maths provides a strong foundation for entry into dairy farm management. The recognised professional qualification in Irish agriculture is the Teagasc Green Certificate (NFQ Level 6), which is the standard minimum for farm managers and is required by many farm assist and leasing schemes. Alternatively, you could progress to an NFQ Level 7 Bachelor of Agricultural Science at institutions such as University College Dublin or University of Limerick, or a Level 8 Honours Bachelor offered at UCD or Waterford's SETU. PLC courses in Agriculture at Level 5, offered through ETB colleges and agricultural colleges such as Kildalton or Clonakilty, are a practical entry route before completing the Green Cert. Teagasc also delivers apprenticeship-style programmes that allow you to earn and learn on a working farm.