Dairy Herdsperson
Join Peeters Farms Ltd. in Calmar, Alberta and advance your career in Canada’s thriving dairy industry
Priority hiring – Response within 48 hours | 2 positions available
Job Summary
Peeters Farms Ltd. is seeking experienced Dairy Herdspersons to join our progressive dairy operation in Calmar, Alberta. This full-time permanent position offers an exceptional hourly wage of $28.00, making it one of the most competitive dairy worker salaries in the province. The role encompasses all aspects of modern dairy herd management including milking operations, cow health monitoring, reproduction programs, calf care, and facility maintenance. We operate a state-of-the-art milking parlour with robotic milking technology and maintain a herd of 300+ Holstein dairy cattle. We welcome applications from Canadian residents and international candidates eligible for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Successful candidates receive free on-farm housing, comprehensive health benefits, and genuine opportunities for career advancement within our expanding operation.
Job Details
Company Overview
Peeters Farms Ltd. is a leading dairy operation located in the fertile agricultural heartland of Calmar, Alberta, approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Edmonton. Founded in 1987 by the Peeters family, our farm has grown from a modest 50-cow operation to a modern, technologically advanced dairy housing over 300 Holstein cows producing premium-quality milk for the Alberta market. Our state-of-the-art facility features a double-12 parallel milking parlour, automated feed delivery systems, climate-controlled barns, and a comprehensive herd management software system.
We are committed to sustainable dairy farming practices, animal welfare excellence, and continuous improvement in milk production efficiency. Our cows enjoy spacious free-stall housing, sand bedding for comfort, and a carefully balanced total mixed ration formulated by professional nutritionists. We maintain strong relationships with Alberta Milk, local veterinarians, and agricultural extension services to ensure our operation meets the highest industry standards. At Peeters Farms, our employees are valued members of the team. We foster a professional yet family-oriented work environment where dedication and skill are recognized and rewarded. We are fully compliant with all Alberta agricultural and labour regulations and actively support the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
Visit Peeters Farms Ltd. WebsiteJob Description
As a Dairy Herdsperson at Peeters Farms Ltd., you will assume a critical role in the daily management of our Holstein dairy herd. This is a hands-on position that requires technical knowledge of dairy cattle, proficiency with modern milking equipment, and a genuine commitment to animal welfare. You will work as part of a close-knit team under the direction of our Herd Manager, contributing directly to milk production quality, herd health, and overall farm profitability.
The work schedule is structured around the dairy industry’s demanding rhythm, with early morning milking shifts typically beginning at 4:30 AM, followed by midday herd management tasks, and an evening milking shift concluding around 7:00 PM. While the hours are long, the work is deeply rewarding for those passionate about livestock and modern agriculture. You will gain exposure to cutting-edge dairy technology including automated milking systems, electronic herd monitoring, and precision feeding programs.
This position is ideal for experienced dairy workers seeking stability, competitive pay, and career growth in Canadian agriculture. Whether you are an Alberta resident with dairy experience or an international candidate looking to build a future in Canada’s dairy sector, Peeters Farms Ltd. offers a professional environment where your expertise will be valued and your career aspirations supported.
Key Responsibilities
- Milking Operations: Perform pre-milking preparation including forestripping, teat cleaning, and dip application; attach milking units and monitor milk flow; perform post-milking teat disinfection in our double-12 parallel parlour
- Parlour Maintenance: Clean and sanitize milking equipment, pipelines, and bulk tanks according to CIP protocols; perform daily equipment checks and report malfunctions to maintenance staff
- Herd Health Monitoring: Conduct daily visual inspections of all cows for signs of illness, lameness, mastitis, or metabolic disorders; take temperatures, administer treatments, and assist veterinarians during herd health visits
- Reproduction Management: Detect heat signs and standing heat in cows; assist with artificial insemination procedures; monitor pregnancy status and prepare cows for calving; maintain accurate breeding records in herd management software
- Calving Assistance: Monitor close-up dry cows for calving signs; assist with difficult deliveries when necessary; ensure newborn calves receive adequate colostrum within the critical first two hours
- Calf Rearing: Manage calf feeding schedules including milk replacer, starter grain, and fresh water; monitor calf health, administer vaccinations, and wean calves according to farm protocols
- Feed Management: Assist with preparing and delivering total mixed rations (TMR); monitor feed bunks for proper intake; report feed quality issues and adjust rations under nutritionist guidance
- Housing & Bedding: Maintain clean, comfortable free-stall housing by regularly adding fresh sand or straw bedding; scrape alleys and ensure proper ventilation and drainage in barns
- Hoof Care: Perform routine hoof trimming and footbath maintenance; identify and treat hoof lesions, digital dermatitis, and other foot conditions promptly
- Record Keeping: Accurately enter milk production data, breeding records, health treatments, and inventory information into DairyComp or similar herd management software
- Biosecurity: Enforce farm biosecurity protocols including visitor control, vehicle sanitation, and boot cleaning stations to prevent disease introduction
- Team Collaboration: Work cooperatively with fellow herdspersons, the Herd Manager, and external professionals including veterinarians, nutritionists, and AI technicians
Qualifications & Skills
Required
- Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in commercial dairy operations
- Proficiency in milking parlour procedures and milking equipment operation
- Solid understanding of dairy cattle behaviour, health indicators, and welfare standards
- Physical stamina for early morning starts (4:30 AM), long shifts, and repetitive tasks
- Valid Canadian Class 5 driver’s license or equivalent international license
- Fluent English communication for record keeping, veterinary consultations, and team coordination
- Ability to work in warm, humid barn environments and cold Alberta winters
- Comfortable working with computers and herd management software
- Willingness to live on-farm in provided accommodation
Preferred
- Diploma or certificate in Dairy Science, Animal Science, or Agricultural Technology
- Experience with Holstein cattle and their specific management requirements
- Knowledge of artificial insemination techniques and heat detection aids
- Familiarity with DairyComp, PCDART, or similar herd management software
- Experience with robotic or automated milking systems
- Hoof trimming certification or experience
- Artificial insemination (AI) certification from Semex, Alta, or ABS
- Basic mechanical skills for minor equipment repairs and maintenance
- First Aid and CPR certification
- Previous experience working in Canada’s dairy industry or similar climate
Salary & Benefits
Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Free On-Farm Housing: Private furnished bedroom in modern farm residence with full kitchen, living room, laundry, and high-speed internet; utilities fully covered by employer
- Farm Vehicle: Dedicated work truck for farm duties, veterinary visits, feed pickup, and personal use within reasonable limits
- Visa Sponsorship: Full LMIA support and TFWP work permit assistance for qualified international candidates; step-by-step immigration guidance provided
- Health & Dental Insurance: Comprehensive extended health coverage including dental, vision, prescription drugs, massage therapy, and chiropractic care after 3-month probation
- Paid Time Off: 2 weeks paid vacation annually plus 5 sick days and all Alberta statutory holidays
- Dairy Products: Free milk, cheese, butter, and other farm-fresh dairy products for personal consumption
- Continuing Education: Financial support for dairy management courses, AI certification, hoof trimming workshops, and agricultural conferences
- Retirement Savings: Employer-matched RRSP contributions up to 3% of annual salary after one year of employment
- Performance Bonuses: Quarterly bonuses tied to somatic cell count targets, reproduction rates, and milk production benchmarks
- Cell Phone Allowance: Monthly stipend for work communication and emergency contact availability
- Clothing Allowance: Annual allowance for work boots, coveralls, and cold-weather gear
Job Location
Peeters Farms Ltd.
Range Road 262
Calmar, Alberta
T0C 0V0, Canada
Region: Leduc County, Central Alberta
40 km southwest of Edmonton
45 minutes from Edmonton International Airport
About the Location: Calmar is a charming small town in Leduc County, Alberta, situated in the heart of one of Canada’s most productive agricultural regions. The area is renowned for its fertile black soil, ideal for crop production and dairy farming. Calmar offers a peaceful rural lifestyle with essential amenities including grocery stores, restaurants, a medical clinic, schools, and recreational facilities. The nearby city of Leduc provides additional shopping and services, while Edmonton, Alberta’s capital, is just 40 minutes away offering world-class healthcare, entertainment, and cultural attractions. The region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and cold winters that showcase Alberta’s famous prairie landscapes. Workers enjoy affordable living, friendly communities, and easy access to both urban conveniences and pristine natural areas including Elk Island National Park and the North Saskatchewan River valley.
How to Apply
Ready to advance your dairy career with Peeters Farms Ltd.? Follow these steps to apply:
Prepare Your Application
Update your resume with detailed dairy experience including herd sizes managed, equipment operated, and specific skills. Prepare a cover letter explaining your passion for dairy farming and why Peeters Farms interests you. Gather copies of certifications and reference contacts.
Submit Online Application
Click the “Apply Now” button and complete our comprehensive application form. Upload your resume, cover letter, and certifications. Provide detailed information about your dairy experience, availability, and accommodation needs.
Interview & Farm Assessment
Shortlisted candidates participate in a video interview followed by an in-person farm visit. During the visit, you will tour our facilities, meet the team, and demonstrate your milking and cattle handling skills in a practical assessment.
Employment Offer & Relocation
Successful candidates receive a detailed employment contract. International applicants receive full LMIA documentation and work permit application support. We assist with travel arrangements and settling into on-farm accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Jobs in Canada
Explore more livestock and dairy opportunities across Canada on Job Bank Canada:
Ready to Excel in Canadian Dairy Farming?
Join Peeters Farms Ltd. as a Dairy Herdsperson and earn $28/hour with free housing in beautiful Alberta!
Apply NowSecure and confidential application | Response within 48 business hours