When it comes to getting a job on the dairy or changing jobs once you are hired, it is very important to have the right attitude about first learning how the job works and then working hard at doing a good job.

They need to be hungry to learn. That is what it is all about. If you are new to the dairy industry, you must be willing to learn both what is being taught and how it is being done. For most dairies, there is a system in place that must be followed.

The cows are used to that system, and the managers feel it is the best way to take care of the animals on that particular dairy. If you have been working on dairies before, you need to be willing to adapt your way of working to the new facility. It might not be easy to do, but herdsmen and managers are always watching to see who is working well and might be able to take on more responsibility. These are the people we want to keep around.

Experience from working on another dairy is a good thing if you are willing to adapt to the system in place. Don’t get me wrong, most managers welcome new ideas if you feel there is something that can be improved. But it is important to make sure you offer the suggestion and get approval for the change before you implement it. It takes everyone working together to make things work smoothly every day. EL

Editor’s note:
Raul is one of three lead herdsmen at Beuker’s Dairy in Murtaugh, Idaho. Raul is in charge of the day-to-day management of 10,000 milk cows and the employees who work with them.