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The Manager Trainee role is designed for individuals who want to build a long-term career in dairy farm leadership with Aurora Organic Dairy.
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In this role, the trainee will rotate through key areas of farm operations, including feeding, milking, animal care, herd health, maternity and hospital pen support, sanitation, and facility upkeep.
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This position partners closely with farm leadership to learn AOD standards, safety practices, animal care expectations, and organic compliance requirements while gaining hands-on operational experience.
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The trainee will support day-to-day farm operations, contribute to team success, and develop the judgment, communication, and leadership skills needed for future management opportunities.
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Successful candidates will bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to operational excellence, animal care, and continuous improvement.
ADDITIONAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Demonstrate professionalism and respect in interactions with employees, leaders, vendors, and visitors.
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Participate in training, cross-functional learning opportunities, and special projects that support development into a future farm leader.
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Assist with accurate herd records, operational logs, and other reporting requirements.
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Model accountability, adaptability, teamwork, and a positive approach in a fast-paced farm environment.
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Budget: Supports cost awareness and operational efficiency; no direct budget ownership during training.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:
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Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science, Agriculture, Agribusiness, or a related field preferred; equivalent hands-on dairy or farm operations experience may also be considered.
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Internship, cooperative education, or prior experience in dairy, livestock, agriculture, or farm operations is preferred.
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Bilingual skills are a plus.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
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Ability to learn, understand, and follow all AOD policies, procedures, safety requirements, animal care expectations, and National Organic Program regulations.
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Strong interest in dairy farm management, herd health, milk quality, employee leadership, and continuous improvement.
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Solid problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and a willingness to learn through coaching and feedback.
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Ability to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions, with schedule flexibility as farm operations require.
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Physical ability to bend, stoop, stand for extended periods, walk uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 pounds.
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Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships.
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Basic computer skills and the ability to learn farm management systems, recordkeeping tools, and reporting processes.
PRINCIPAL WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:
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Internally:
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Works closely with farm managers, supervisors, herdsmen, animal care teams, maintenance staff, and other AOD operational leaders.
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May also partner with employees at other AOD farms, the processing plant, and corporate support teams as part of training and development.
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Externally: Represents AOD professionally with vendors, service providers, auditors, and visitors as appropriate to training assignments.
