Herdsperson(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
Join a Leading Dairy Research and Commercial Farm
The Centre for Dairy Research (CEDAR) at the University of Reading is seeking a skilled and motivated Herdsperson to join its professional dairy team. This is a hands-on role within a high-performing commercial herd of approximately 530 Holstein cows, managed to excellent welfare and production standards.
Working within a modern farming environment, you will contribute directly to the daily care, health, and performance of a progressive dairy operation that supports both commercial activity and academic research.
Your Role
As Herdsperson, you will:
- Deliver high standards of stockmanship across the herd.
- Monitor cow health, welfare, and productivity.
- Support calving, feeding, milking routines, and herd management tasks.
- Maintain welfare-focused husbandry practices in line with best practice and regulatory standards.
- Work collaboratively with the Farms Manager and Herd Manager to maintain operational excellence.
- Contribute to maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient farm environment.
- This role operates on an 11-in-14-day rota to meet the operational needs of a working dairy farm.
About You
We are looking for someone who demonstrates:
- Strong practical experience working with dairy cattle.
- A thorough understanding of dairy cow husbandry and welfare.
- Excellent stockmanship and attention to animal wellbeing.
- A team-oriented approach with reliability and enthusiasm.
- The ability to work consistently within a structured rota system.
What We Offer
- A supportive and professional farm team.
- Modern facilities and well-maintained working conditions.
- Competitive salary and pension scheme.
- On-site accommodation available, if required.
- The opportunity to work within a respected agricultural and research setting.
The farm operates as part of the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development at the University of Reading, combining commercial farming with innovation and research excellence.
Skilled Worker Visa Information
Due to the complexity of UK immigration rules, applicants requiring sponsorship should review their eligibility carefully before applying. The University is unable to provide immigration advice during the application stage and will only discuss visa options with shortlisted candidates.
Official government guidance can be found here:
- Skilled Worker visa overview: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
- Points-based immigration system guidance
- Eligible occupations and SOC codes
- Applying to work in the UK
- Right to work checks for employees
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The University of Reading is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We support the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ equality initiatives. As a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2), we welcome applications from candidates requiring reasonable adjustments.
Flexible working arrangements, including job-share and part-time options, will be considered where operationally feasible.
