Objective/Purpose of the Job: The Milking Farm Systems Technician (Lead) is a hands-on technical expert responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing all milking systems and performing general farm upkeep on a large-scale dairy farm.
The role includes providing leadership to a small maintenance team to ensure efficient operation, hygiene standards, and minimal downtime of milking equipment.
The technician will perform complex repairs and preventive maintenance, liaising with external contractors for projects.
Main Duties and Responsibilities: Perform maintenance, calibration, and repair of automated milking systems (clusters, pulsators, vacuum pumps, sensors, pipelines).
Service refrigeration and milk cooling systems, including compressors, plate coolers, and bulk tanks.
Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and automation issues on milking equipment.
Maintain system hygiene and ensure compliance with milk quality regulations.
Schedule and execute preventive maintenance tasks to reduce equipment failures.
Monitor system performance during milking sessions and make real-time adjustments.
Recommend and implement upgrades for improved efficiency and automation.
Monitor and service deep wells and water distribution systems on-site.
Oversee a small maintenance team (refrigeration, electrical technicians, welders, plumbers) on daily tasks.
Assign work orders, provide technical guidance, and ensure job quality.
Coordinate with external vendors for specialized repairs and installations.
Assist in training team members on troubleshooting and system care.
Keep detailed records of maintenance work, calibration, and inspections.
Ensure compliance with industry and farm biosecurity standards (HACCP, local regulations).
Serve as the primary contact for urgent breakdowns affecting milking operations, providing immediate troubleshooting to restore operations quickly.
Coordinate with the stores department to manage procurement of supplies and spares, maintaining minimum stock levels.
Participate in training activities and perform housekeeping on all assigned jobs.
Perform other duties as assigned to improve efficiency.
Work Environment: The work may involve hazardous environments, exposure to confined spaces, noise, dust, cold, and heat.
Duties may require standing, walking, sitting, reaching, climbing, stooping, kneeling, talking, hearing, and using fingers and hands.
Late work and on-call duties (24 hours) may be required, including weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
Academic/Technical/Management Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree in an engineering-related field.
Recognized engineering discipline certification from an accredited institution.
Minimum two (2) years of practical experience in repairs of relevant systems, preferably in a dairy farm environment.
Project management skills.
Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and construction concepts.
Understanding of contracts and procurement procedures.
Food Handlers' Permit.
Pre-employment drug, alcohol screening, and criminal background check.
Abilities, Skills, Experience, Judgement: Ability to interpret mechanical and machinery diagrams.
Manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude; proficient with hand tools and hydraulic tools.
Ability to read electrical blueprints and familiarity with electrical systems, codes, and safety procedures.
Knowledge of Food Safety Management Systems, ISO 22000, HACCP.
Health Insurance Life Insurance Lunch Subsidy Pension Plan Other benefits.
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