Murphys Grass Farm – Job Opportunity

We are looking for a capable dairy grazier who is eager to succeed as a dairy producer and wants to build equity in a profitable organic dairy herd. The farm is located in Western NY about 10 miles from Lake Erie and sits at an elevation of 1600’. We have 300 acres of grassland accessible from the barn. With about 100 milkers, we have the opportunity to grow. We plan to expand in collaboration with the right candidate. We are currently working with a group of advisors to assist us in the planning process to increase efficiency and scale to ensure long-term success of the farm.

The farm owner is slowly approaching retirement age and wants to make sure that this farm continues as a successful dairy grazing operation for a long time. By increasing efficiency and scale, we plan to reduce both direct and overhead costs per cwt to increase profitability. Our hope is to ultimately create a share-milking agreement with the successful candidate who will have some level of equity ownership of the herd.

This farm has been a grass-based dairy for over 50 years and has been managed by the current owner for 24 years. The farm has 300 acres of rolling high organic matter silt loam pastures and an additional 200 acres are rented. 

Two-hundred acres are fenced with high tensile wire and grazed. There are improved lanes and water is available in each paddock. Polywire is moved twice daily to create paddocks. The grazing season starts in late April and goes until November. Cows are milked through the winter. Calving goes from March through November. Most animals are housed under a roof and fed baleage in the winter.

Housing on the farm is a possibility, but depends on the needs of the candidate and several other factors. Otherwise housing will need to be secured nearby. Housing arrangements will be reflected in the negotiated salary. 

Profile of Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate must have experience managing a dairy herd, including grazing. An ideal candidate would also have the following:

• Willingness to work long hours, when necessary.
• Ability to work well with others and manage staff as needed.
• Experience in animal health and parlor management. 
• Knowledge of organic standards.
• Goal oriented and business minded
• Capable of maintaining records and following protocols
• Comfortable operating machinery
• Fencing, light construction, and milking equipment maintenance skills would be useful.

Timeline and Other Details

• Candidates interviewed in Summer and Fall of 2024.
• Successful candidate starts by December 2024. 
• Serves as hired herdsman for at least one year before exploring sharemilking options. Salary range for herdsman is expected to be between $40,000 and $50,000 per year if housing is included.
• If the successful candidate is interested and is the right fit for the farm, a sharemilking contract could be developed as soon as 2026. 

Submit the following by email to Doug Murphy at dsm1@sbcglobal.net:

1. A cover letter that describes your relevant background and experience and why you think you would be a good candidate for this opportunity,
2. Your resume, and
3. Names and contact information for at least two professional references. 

Candidates who qualify will be contacted to set up virtual interviews. Selected candidates will be invited to visit the farm and have an in-person interview. An offer will be made to the chosen candidate. Start date during the second half of 2024, if possible.