What It's Really Like Working on a Large-Scale Dairy Farm Abroad
For many dairy professionals, the opportunity to work overseas is about more than just travel. It's a chance to accelerate your career, gain experience on a scale that's difficult to find elsewhere, and enjoy a package of benefits that can transform your work-life balance.
We recently spoke with one of our Irish candidates, David who made the move to a large-scale dairy operation in Saudi Arabia in 2025. Here's what they had to say about life on the farm, the opportunities available, and why they'd recommend the experience to others.
A Career Move That Offers More
After managing a dairy farm in Ireland, our candidate was looking for something different.
The opportunity to work with world-class Holstein genetics on one of the largest dairy operations in the world was a major attraction.
Equally important was the chance to broaden their management experience while enjoying a better overall work-life balance.
Working in a highly structured environment has allowed them to develop new technical skills while gaining valuable experience managing people and large-scale farming operations.
Every Day Brings a New Challenge
No two days are the same.
The farm operates around the clock using a four-shift system to ensure the smooth running of daily operations. Irish managers rotate through every department, giving them hands-on experience across the entire dairy business.
Departments include:
- Calving
- Calf and youngstock
- Animal health
- Breeding
- Feeding
- Milking parlour
This rotation provides a unique opportunity to build a complete understanding of modern, intensive dairy production experience that's difficult to gain on most farms.
Farming on an Incredible Scale
The numbers are difficult to comprehend until you see them for yourself.
The farm milks approximately 21,000 cows four times every day, making it one of the largest dairy operations anywhere in the world.
Working in an environment of this scale exposes employees to advanced systems, technology, animal management practices and operational efficiencies that can significantly enhance their career prospects.
Continuous Learning and Career Development
Although only one year into the role, David has already seen how performance is recognised.
Career progression is based on merit rather than length of service, creating an environment where motivated individuals can continue to develop and advance.
For ambitious dairy professionals, this offers a genuine opportunity to build an international career.
Life Outside of Work
Moving abroad naturally raises questions about life beyond the farm.
Accommodation and meals are provided, allowing employees to settle in quickly. On-site leisure facilities include a gym, indoor sports hall and outdoor basketball court, while many Irish colleagues regularly socialise together and visit the nearby town during their time off.
With generous annual leave and regular flights home included in the package, maintaining connections with family and friends is much easier than many people expect.
For those looking to take the next step in their dairy career, it's an opportunity to gain world-class experience while building valuable leadership and technical skills.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
Successful candidates can benefit from:
- Tax-free salary of €54,000 in Year 1
- 98 days annual leave
- Six prepaid return flights to Ireland every year
- Accommodation and meals provided
- Access to gym and leisure facilities
- Excellent career progression opportunities
- Experience working on one of the world's largest dairy operations
Ready for Your Next Challenge?
If you're an experienced dairy professional looking to broaden your horizons, develop your skills and earn a highly competitive tax-free salary, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.
View the full job description HERE and apply today or contact John Miller who can guide you through the application process.
