We are looking for an experienced and motivated Breeding Unit Manager to join our team on a 300-sow commercial piggery. This role is responsible for the management and performance of the breeding herd and ensuring high standards of animal welfare, herd health, and production efficiency.
The Breeding Unit Manager will oversee the daily operation of the breeding area and work closely with the wider piggery team to maintain consistent pig flow through the production system.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the day-to-day operations of the breeding unit within a 300-sow commercial piggery
- Conduct heat detection and mating of sows and gilts
- Carry out artificial insemination procedures
- Monitor pregnancy, sow condition, and reproductive performance
- Manage gilt selection, development, and herd introduction
- Maintain accurate breeding and herd production records
- Monitor pig health and work with veterinary support when required
- Ensure high standards of animal welfare, hygiene, and biosecurity
- Work collaboratively with farrowing, weaner, and grower teams to support overall herd performance
- Assist with feed production in the piggery meal room when required
- Support general maintenance and upkeep of piggery facilities and equipment.
Skills and Experience
- Has experience working in commercial pig production or livestock farming, ideally supported by Level 5 or Level 6 qualifications in Agriculture, Animal Science, or Pig Husbandry (or equivalent practical experience)
- Has breeding herd experience, including heat detection and artificial insemination (training may be provided for the right candidate)
- Has experience across at least two stages of pig production(breeding, farrowing, weaner or grower units)
- Demonstrates strong stockmanship and animal observation skills, with the ability to assess condition, identify health issues early, and respond appropriately
- Is confident handling livestock and maintains a calm and patient approach with animals
- Has good numeracy and literacy skills for maintaining accurate records and production data
- Is able to work independently while contributing positively to a team environment
- Demonstrates practical problem-solving skills in a farm environment
- Is reliable, responsible, honest and self-motivated, with good communication skills and a sound employment record
- Is physically capable of carrying out duties in a commercial piggery environment
- Has a flexible approach to farm work and supporting other areas of the piggery when required.
What We Offer
- Full-time position within a well-established commercial piggery
- Opportunity to take responsibility for a key production area
- Supportive team environment
- Competitive salary based on experience
About the Farm
We are a well-established 300 sow commercial piggery near Foxton in the lower North Island of New Zealand, focused on high standards of animal welfare, good stockmanship, and efficient pig production.
Our farm has a strong team culture, with experienced staff who work closely together to ensure the pigs receive excellent care. We are looking for someone who enjoys working with animals, takes pride in their work, and values being part of a supportive team.
The piggery operates dedicated breeding, farrowing, weaner and grower units, with staff supporting each other across departments when required.
A structured roster provides regular time off, operating on a fortnightly rotation of 4 days on / 6 days on, with every second weekend off.
To Apply
Applications are welcome from candidates with relevant livestock experience only.
Job description available on request.
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining:
- Your experience working with pigs or livestock
- What you enjoy about working with animals.
Close date for application Monday 23 March 2026
