Herd Test Team Leader - Invercargill

LIC is a farmer-owned co-operative that’s been supporting herd improvement in New Zealand’s dairy sector for more than 115 years. We’re focused on providing superior genetics, reliable testing and diagnostics, integrated on-farm software, and great customer service, all designed to help farmers make smarter decisions every day.

As a proud generational co-operative, we’re here for farmers, their families, and rural communities, not just for today, but for the future. And none of it happens without our people. Whether on farm, in the lab, or behind the scenes, every one of us plays a part in helping New Zealand farmers succeed.

About the Role:

Reporting to the Herd Test Regional Manager, the Herd Test Team Leader is responsible for delivering quality customer service across the wider Invercargill region through management of resources and the effective team leadership of the permanent Herd Test Field Techs and the seasonal team.   

Your key focus: 

• Deliver exceptional service to internal and external customers, resolving queries promptly and in line with Herd Testing standards.

• Ensure compliance with herd testing tasks, ISO standards, and quality processes, including staff training and equipment calibration.

• Support route planning by providing input into truck schedules for optimal efficiency.

• Assist with capacity planning by monitoring and updating annual plans.

• Lead and develop the team, including recruitment, training, performance reviews, and KPI monitoring for permanent and seasonal staff.

• Manage rostering for technicians and trainers to meet operational and budget targets.

• Adjust schedules as needed to accommodate changes while maintaining efficiency.

• Ensure technicians are equipped with all necessary tools and documentation for daily operations.

• Manage satellite depots within your designated region.

• Process customer credits and charges related to herd testing.

• Handle customer feedback, ensuring positive outcomes for both the customer and LIC.

• Champion continuous improvement within the team and across the business.

• Maintain adherence to Herd Testing Quality Management System principles.

About you:  

• Current full drivers licence and have ideally completed defensive driver training.  

• Dairy farming knowledge highly desirable

• Herd Testing knowledge an advantage

• Awareness of Health and Safety requirements

• Experience in an ISO environment

• Staff and team management experience is essential in this role

• Experience in resource allocation/management (e.g vehicles/plant/equipment)

• Process focus, with emphasis on standardisation

• Experience in GIS tools would be of significant benefit

• Time management skills.

In return:

In addition to a competitive salary, you'll receive some great benefits including:

• Extra leave days

• Flexible working options

• Discounted health, life, income and disability insurances

• Access to our employee shares scheme

• Wellbeing discounts

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to the success of NZ’s dairy industry, we want to hear from you!