Royal Veterinary College jobs

RVC Farm

We are seeking an experienced herdsperson to take a key role in the day-to-day management of our dairy herd at Boltons Park Farm, the Royal Veterinary College’s working farm.

With herd expansion underway (100 120 cows) and new dairy facilities being built, this is an excellent opportunity to join a progressive system where you can make a real impact on herd performance.

• Accommodation or allowance available (if applicable)
• Opportunity to grow with an expanding herd
• Work within a leading veterinary and agricultural institution

Your Role

You will play a key hands-on role, taking responsibility for the daily running and performance of the herd, working closely with the wider farm team.

• Lead milking routine and maintain high parlour standards
• Monitor herd health, fertility, and performance
• Manage calving within a year-round system
• Contribute to feeding and nutrition
• Maintain accurate records (Uniform)
• Be part of a leading teaching and research farm environment
• You will be working 5 days per week plus 1 in 3 weekends

The Dairy You Will Be Working With

A well-managed, high-output Holstein Friesian herd:

• Holstein Friesian | 10,000L average yield
• 180,000 SCC | 4.49% BF | 3.50% Protein
• Arla Welfare Pro Contract
• High health status, genomically tested replacements

Facilities & Investment

You will be working in a well-equipped and continually improving system:

• Modern GEA 16/16 herringbone parlour
• Loose housing prioritising cow comfort
• New dairy housing under construction
• Excellent forage and handling infrastructure

What You Bring

• Solid experience in a dairy herdsperson role
• Strong stockmanship and attention to detail
• Confidence in milking, herd health, and fertility
• Ability to work independently and take ownership
• AI experience preferred

Additional skills welcomed: machinery, foot trimming, or mixed livestock experience

About the Farm

A diverse, mixed enterprise alongside the dairy:

• 600 sheep & 300 chickens
• Horses & pigs

Benefits

We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:

• Competitive and attractive pension package
• Generous 26 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave
• Hawkshead onsite café and restaurant
• Free membership to the Fitness and Wellbeing Centre located on site (gym, badminton, climbing wall, Zumba, yoga and Pilates classes included)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus

Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact Graeme Webster –Farm Manager email: gwebster@rvc.ac.uk if you have any questions regarding this vacancy.