Herdsperson(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
An exciting hands-on opportunity is available within the commercial dairy unit at University of Reading, working at the Centre for Dairy Research (CEDAR). This role places you at the heart of a high-performing dairy enterprise, caring for a herd of approximately 530 Holstein cows managed to excellent welfare standards.
If you are passionate about livestock care, enjoy practical farm work, and take pride in maintaining high husbandry standards, this position offers a rewarding environment with modern facilities and a supportive team culture.
About the Role
As Herdsperson, you will contribute directly to the daily care, health, and productivity of the dairy herd. The work is practical, team-oriented, and central to maintaining the farm’s high operational and welfare standards.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Delivering attentive, high-quality stock care
- Monitoring herd health and wellbeing
- Supporting feeding, milking, and routine husbandry tasks
- Maintaining welfare-focused working practices
- Collaborating with colleagues to ensure smooth daily operations
- Accommodation may be available for candidates relocating or requiring on-site living arrangements.
What You’ll Bring
We are looking for someone who combines strong technical knowledge with genuine care for animal welfare.
You should have:
- Excellent stockmanship and livestock handling skills
- Sound knowledge of dairy cow husbandry and welfare principles
- Practical experience working with dairy herds
- A team-focused mindset and strong work ethic
- Reliability and enthusiasm for hands-on farm work
Working Environment
The dairy unit forms part of a progressive teaching and research farm, offering:
- A friendly, supportive agricultural team
- Modern facilities and equipment
- Competitive pay and pension benefits
- Optional accommodation (subject to availability)
- The farm operates to high welfare and operational standards aligned with national agricultural guidance.
- Skilled Worker Visa Guidance
Applicants who require visa sponsorship should independently review eligibility criteria before applying:
- Skilled Worker visa overview — UK Home Office
Relevant UK Agricultural & Welfare Guidance
Candidates may wish to familiarise themselves with current UK livestock standards:
- Farm animal welfare guidance — Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
- Cattle identification and welfare — Animal and Plant Health Agency
- Livestock health standards — Rural Payments Agency
- Workplace farm safety — Health and Safety Executive
Equality & Inclusion Commitment
The University fosters an inclusive workplace and actively supports equality frameworks such as:
- Athena SWAN Charter
- Race Equality Charter
- Disability Confident
Flexible working arrangements are considered wherever operational needs allow.
