Applications are invited for the following post in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries: Senior Dairyman/Milker (LMO/TS 3) – (Not Vacant) in the Research and Development/Operations Farm Management Unit, salary range $10,771 - $12,187 per week.
Job Purpose
Under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager (SOG/ST 6), the Senior Dairyman/Milker (LMO/TS 3), ensures animal production outcomes, general animal welfare and the maintenance of relevant machinery and equipment with respect to dairy cattle.
Key Responsibilities
Technical/Professional:
- Prepares for, and initiates milking of cows twice daily, or, at recommended frequency, employing hygienic standards and acceptable operating procedures;
- Ensures the feeding of cows during the milking activities, and at other times as designated;
- Assists in the herding of animals, to and from pastures;
- Observes and reports cases of animals displaying signed of oestrus, ill health and other conditions deemed abnormal;
- Identifies and initiates treatment of animals displaying clinical mastitis, and prophylactic measures for cows entering the dry phase of lactation;
- Exercises responsibility for preparing sanitizing and disinfecting solutions integral to the maintenance of proper hygienic control of milking operations;
- Washes, disinfects and sanitizes milk storage containers, conduits, and accessories, subsequent to, and after, each milking in order to ensure quality standards;
- Ensures the functional integrity of the milking equipment is maintained by effecting routine maintenance as scheduled and reporting equipment malfunction upon observation;
- Assists with milk recording and distribution;
- Assists in any programme of treatment of animals;
- Assists in the recovery of missing animals;
- Performs any other related duties which may be assigned from time to time.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
Core:
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Good interpersonal and people management skills
- Good customer relations skills
- Good problem solving skills
- Teamwork and cooperation
- Integrity
Technical:
- Excellent knowledge of livestock husbandry and management
- Competence in the care of dairy animals
- Proficient in the maintenance requirement and care of dairy equipment
- Proficient in all aspects related to the proper milking of dairy animals
Minimum Required Qualification and Experience
- NCTVET Level 1 in general agriculture;
- One (1) year experience as a Dairyman/Milker; or
- Completion of secondary level education with knowledge of agriculture;
- Two (2) years’ experience in animal care and husbandry;
- Two (2) years working experience in a dairy environment.
- Special Conditions Associated with the Job
- Working environment involves possible exposure to dusty conditions, hazardous chemical and drugs, and zoonotic disease conditions.
Applications accompanied by résumés should be submitted no later than Wednesday July 28, 2021 to:
Senior Director
Human Resource Management and Development Division
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries
Hope Gardens
Kingston 6
E-mail: hrm@moa.gov.jm
Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
