About Emlane
Emlane Farms Ltd. is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join our family-run dairy operation in Port Perry, Ontario. This opportunity has become available as our long-term Herdsperson prepares for retirement after 15 years with the farm, reflecting the positive, supportive, and stable work environment we have worked hard to build.
As owners, we are passionate about animal care, high-quality food production, and the daily commitment required to operate a successful dairy farm. We are looking for someone who shares these values, takes pride in their work, and is committed to supporting the health, wellbeing, and performance of the herd.
The West Port herd consists of more than 200 head, with approximately 75 cows in milk. We utilize two Lely A4 robotic milking systems and an automated calf feeding system within a modern, progressive dairy operation. While we embrace technology and innovation, our focus remains firmly rooted in exceptional animal care, herd health, reproductive performance, and continuous genetic improvement within our primarily Red and White Holstein herd.
Working directly alongside the owners, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to day-to-day decision-making, continue developing their skills, and play an important role in the future growth and success of the farm.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation based on experience: $50,000 - $65,000 annual salary, housing to be discussed.
- Paid vacation
- Long-term, stable employment with a proven history of employee retention
- Opportunity to work directly alongside the owners in a collaborative and supportive environment
- Opportunity to work with modern dairy technology and progressive management practices
- A focus on ongoing professional development, including industry events, learning opportunities, and continued skill development
- A supportive, positive, family-run environment where your input is valued and you play a meaningful role in day-to-day decision-making
- Rural living with access to the amenities, schools, and communities of Port Perry and Uxbridge
The Role
Working directly alongside the owners, this position plays a key role in the health, performance, and daily management of our robotic dairy operation. Success in this role requires a commitment to animal wellbeing, consistency in daily routines, strong communication, and the ability to work independently while contributing to the overall success of the farm.
This role follows the daily rhythm of a modern dairy operation. Typical responsibilities are completed through morning and afternoon herd management activities, with flexibility throughout the day based on herd needs and operational priorities. The position typically follows a rotating schedule that includes every other weekend, morning and afternoon chores with flexibility built into the day between herd management activities and scheduled evening checks to monitor animal health and automated systems. As with most dairy operations, occasional additional time may be required during herd health events, emergencies, or operational priorities.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Monitoring herd health, including transition cows, fresh cows, and calves
- Monitoring robotic milking system performance, identifying issues, and coordinating repairs or service requirements as needed
- Assisting with and coordinating herd health protocols, including veterinarian visits, vaccinations, hoof trimming, and other preventative health initiatives
- Heat detection and A.I. support to help achieve reproductive performance targets
- Daily observation for illness, injury, behavioural changes, or other indicators requiring attention
- Managing and maintaining herd records within Lely Horizon dairy software
- Supporting daily feeding, bedding, cow comfort, and overall animal wellbeing
- Maintaining cleanliness and standards required to support ProAction compliance
- Establishing and maintaining consistent daily routines that support herd performance, animal care, and operational efficiency
- Communicating regularly with ownership regarding herd performance, operational priorities, observations, and recommendations
- Providing direction and support to part-time, seasonal, or relief team members when required
- Assisting with general farm duties, maintenance, and repairs as needed
- Supporting field work as required; experience operating farm machinery is considered an asset
- Completing record keeping and data entry required for herd monitoring, performance tracking, and regulatory compliance
A full job description with tasks is available upon request for interested candidates
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 3 years of hands-on dairy or livestock experience
- A genuine passion for animal health, wellbeing, and quality care
- Strong observation skills and attention to detail
- Ability to establish and maintain consistent routines while ensuring daily tasks are completed reliably and efficiently
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Sound judgment and confidence in making day-to-day decisions related to herd care and farm operations
- Initiative to identify issues, solve problems, and contribute to the ongoing success of the operation
- Ability to provide direction and support to part-time, seasonal, or relief team members when required
- Experience with herd management software and robotic milking systems is considered an asset; however, training and development will be provided to the right candidate
We are ultimately looking for someone who is composed, dependable, and takes pride in their work. The ideal candidate enjoys caring for animals, values consistency and responsibility, and wants to grow alongside a progressive and supportive farm operation. While experience is important, we believe; attitude, work ethic, and a genuine commitment to animal care are the foundation for long-term success in this role.
How to Apply
Please apply with a resume accompanied by a brief summary of your experience and interest in the role to [email protected]. Qualified candidates will be contacted for further discussion. Offers of employment will be conditional upon satisfactory reference and background checks.
Pay: $50,000.00-$65,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Do you have a minimum 3 years dairying experience?
- Would you consider yourself a good team player?
- Are you willing to relocate as this is a fully in-person position?
Work Location: In person
