Basic Function:

The appointee will be responsible for the day-to-day management of a pasture-based dairy research farm. The role will include operational management of the farm within the allocated budget and in compliance with Teagasc’s policies and procedures, rostering and performance management of staff as assigned, managing both grassland and livestock, and co-ordinating the collection of research data from the farm. The role includes managing the delivery of the research and demonstration programme; working with researchers, farm staff, extension personnel and postgraduate students to undertake various research measurements in areas such as grassland management, breeding and reproduction, animal health and welfare, milk quality and environmental performance. The position requires data collection from pastures, soils and animals as part of a research team. Additionally, the role will include assisting with the dissemination of results to visiting groups as required.

Background:

Teagasc (Moorepark) is a world leading institute on grass-based dairy production. It has national responsibility for aspects of dairy production research which include grassland and grazing management, dairy cow breeding and reproduction, dairy cow health and welfare, milk composition and dairy cow nutrition, milking technology and milk production systems plus economic analysis. The research programme is conducted by over 30 scientific and technical professionals, supported by an administrative and operative staff. From its Moorepark research centre, Teagasc operates a total of 7 individual dairy research farms totalling 500 hectares and over 1,200 dairy cows.
This post will be based at Solohead Farm in Tipperary. The primary aim of this farm centres on the development of sustainable systems of milk production. In particular, a key focus of this research farm is the development of systems of milk production that are self-sufficient from a forage production perspective, that result in reduced GHG emissions and nutrient loss to water while maximising profitability with reduced levels of chemical nitrogen, while increasing pasture utilisation.

• Daily management of a large dairy herd including herd health and welfare, grassland management, breeding, calving season management and cross compliance.
• Reporting to the Scientist-in Charge, liaise with research and extension staff to deliver the research programme including the realisation of experimental objectives and protocols.
• Manage both livestock and grassland and co-ordinate the collection of animal and grassland system performance research data.
• Manage the demonstration and outreach aspects of the farm
• Implement robust protocols for corporate governance and compliance with Teagasc policies and procedures on the farm including:                       

                                - Managing procurement of supplies and contracting services in line with Teagasc protocols and procedures, and within the allocated farm budget.

                                - Managing farm staff, undertaking PMDS with team members, and coordinating work rosters in line with approved procedures and the allocated budget.

                                - Maintaining farm equipment and facilities to a high standard of operation and safety. 

                                - Managing the programme of work within the allocated budget.

• Experimental recording and database management in collaboration with colleagues as assigned.
• Contribute to the development of new methodologies or approaches and guide on optimal use of technology or equipment, as appropriate.
• Lead projects in areas of expertise, as assigned.
• Contribute to teamwork and team-spirit, and champion the Teagasc values of Respect, Excellence and Integrity on the farm.
• Assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
• Actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes. Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of oneself, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations, including full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement and with allocated Health & Safety database management/recording.
• Carry out other duties as assigned from time to time.

* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive.  It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.

 Note:  The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.