If you are searching for a stable full-time farming job in New Zealand, the General Farm Worker position at AgResearch (now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – Maiangi Taiao (BSI)) in Mosgiel, Otago is an excellent opportunity. This role is ideal for individuals who have experience in livestock handling, animal health, fencing, lambing, and general farm maintenance. The job is based at Invermay Farm, a busy research farm supporting science-based trials involving sheep, deer, and cattle. This is a permanent full-time role with strong career growth, modern farming exposure, and the chance to work alongside research teams. In this article, we will explain the complete job details, duties, required skills, benefits, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply for the General Farm Worker job at AgResearch in Mosgiel, Dunedin.
About AgResearch and the Bioeconomy Science Institute (BSI)
AgResearch is one of New Zealand’s leading agricultural research organizations. As of 1 July 2025, AgResearch has merged with Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, Plant & Food Research, and Scion to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute – Maiangi Taiao (BSI). This newly formed institute has over 2,000 staff members, including more than 1,500 scientists and researchers across New Zealand and international locations. BSI is now one of the largest publicly owned research organizations in the world, working to support New Zealand’s agricultural development, sustainability, climate resilience, and biosecurity. The organization focuses on innovation in agriculture, forestry, aquaculture, horticulture, ecosystem health, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability. With an annual revenue of approximately $565 million and multiple commercial partnerships, BSI plays a major role in advancing farming systems through real-world scientific trials and research outcomes.
General Farm Worker Job Overview (Mosgiel, Otago)
The General Farm Worker job is located at Invermay Farm, which is part of the Invermay Campus in Mosgiel, near Dunedin in the Otago region. Invermay Farm is a research-focused farm where livestock trials are carried out for scientific studies. The farm team works closely with science teams to implement and manage experiments. This job is suitable for hardworking farm workers who enjoy working with animals and field operations and want to contribute to research-based farming systems.
Job Title
General Farm Worker
Company
AgResearch / Bioeconomy Science Institute – Maiangi Taiao (BSI)
Location
Mosgiel, Otago (Invermay Campus, Dunedin, New Zealand)
Job Type
Permanent, Full-Time
Industry
Farm Labour (Farming, Animals & Conservation)
Closing Date
Sunday, 22 February 2026
Main Responsibilities of the General Farm Worker Role
The General Farm Worker position includes a wide range of tasks involving livestock handling, trial support, and farm maintenance. Since Invermay Farm is a research farm, the duties go beyond traditional farming and include supporting experimental trials that must follow strict protocols.
1. Livestock Management (Sheep, Deer, and Cattle)
A major part of this role is assisting with livestock management and daily farm duties. You will work with sheep, deer, and cattle, helping with feeding, stock movement, yard work, and animal monitoring. You may also support stock recording and animal health checks.
2. Intensive Lambing Work
The job involves intensive lambing, which includes fully recorded lambing events. This means you will be expected to monitor lambing beats, record lamb births, and ensure accurate data collection for research trials. Candidates with lambing experience are preferred, but those willing to learn will also be considered.
3. Supporting Research Trials and Science Goals
Unlike regular commercial farms, Invermay Farm operates under trial plans designed by scientists. The General Farm Worker must work closely with research teams to ensure experiments are implemented properly. This includes managing livestock as required by trial design and maintaining accuracy in farm operations.
4. Field Servicing and Trial Maintenance
This role requires field servicing of experiments to ensure trial conditions match the protocol. You will assist with maintaining farm resources so they remain functional and safe, supporting farm operations aligned with research needs.
5. General Farm Maintenance
General farm maintenance duties include weed spraying, pasture topping, and repairing fencing. You will help keep the farm environment productive and safe by maintaining paddocks, fencing systems, and equipment.
Required Skills and Qualifications for General Farm Worker (AgResearch)
To be considered for this job, applicants must have farming experience and the ability to handle livestock responsibly. Below are the key requirements mentioned in the job listing.
1. Minimum 2+ Years Farm Experience
Applicants should have at least two years of previous farm experience. This should include real experience in livestock handling, basic farm operations, and working with animals.
2. Strong Knowledge of Animal Health and Stock Handling
A good understanding of animal health is important. You should know how to identify sickness signs, injuries, and basic animal welfare practices. Experience in stock handling and recording is also required.
3. TruTest Experience (Advantage)
Experience using TruTest systems is an advantage. TruTest equipment is commonly used for livestock weighing, electronic identification (EID), and recording animal data. If you already know how to use it, your chances of selection increase.
4. Lambing Beat Experience or Willingness to Learn
Experience with fully recorded lambing beats is preferred. However, if you do not have experience but are eager to learn and can handle intensive work during lambing season, you can still apply.
5. Full Driver’s Licence Required
A current full driver’s licence is required. This is important because farm workers may need to drive farm vehicles, transport equipment, and move between farm areas.
6. Strong Motivation and Positive Attitude
The company is looking for a keen and motivated individual who is passionate about the farming industry. You must show enthusiasm, dedication, and a willingness to support research outcomes.
7. Good Communication Skills
Because the farm team works closely with science teams, good communication is necessary. You should be able to follow instructions, report issues, and work professionally with colleagues.
8. Ability to Work Independently and in a Team
You must be able to work autonomously when needed, while also contributing as a collaborative team member. Since the farm team consists of five people, teamwork is essential.
9. Safety-Focused Workplace Behaviour
Health and safety is a major priority. You must demonstrate safe workplace behaviour and take all practical steps to protect yourself and others on the job.
Why This Job is a Great Opportunity in New Zealand
This General Farm Worker job at AgResearch is not just another farm job. It provides stable employment, learning opportunities, and career growth. Below are the main reasons why this position is attractive.
1. Permanent Full-Time Employment
Many farm jobs are seasonal or temporary. This role is permanent, offering long-term job stability.
2. Work in a Research Environment
Working on a research farm gives you exposure to advanced farming systems, scientific methods, and modern trial-based livestock management. This experience can significantly strengthen your farming career.
3. Supportive Team Culture
The company emphasizes teamwork and support. The environment is designed to help staff grow and feel part of a productive workplace.
4. Green and Open Campus Work Environment
BSI campuses are described as green, open, and developing, creating a pleasant work environment that supports productivity and wellbeing.
5. Strong Career Growth Potential
Since the vacancy is due to internal promotion, it shows that BSI promotes growth and development opportunities for staff members.
Salary Expectations for General Farm Worker in Mosgiel Otago
The job listing does not mention an exact salary. However, General Farm Worker salaries in New Zealand typically depend on experience, skills, and job responsibilities. Since this is a research farm position with recorded lambing and trial work, the salary may be competitive compared to standard farm labour roles. Applicants are advised to discuss salary expectations during the interview process and ensure they match their experience level.
How to Apply for a General Farm Worker Job at AgResearch (BSI)
Applying for this job is simple, but you must submit a strong CV and cover letter. Follow these steps to apply correctly.
Step 1: Prepare Your CV
Your CV should include your farm work experience, livestock handling skills, fencing experience, lambing experience, and any relevant training. Mention if you have worked with sheep, deer, or cattle, and include details about animal health knowledge.
Step 2: Write a Strong Cover Letter
Your cover letter should explain why you are suitable for the role. Mention your motivation, experience, willingness to learn, and ability to work safely in a research farm environment.
Step 3: Apply Through the Official Website
The job listing states that you should apply through the provided link and upload your CV and cover letter. The position description can be viewed by clicking “Apply” on the careers website.
Step 4: Apply Early
Recruitment will be processed as applications come in. This means applying early increases your chances of being shortlisted.
Step 5: Contact for More Information (Optional)
If you need more information, you can contact the Research Farm Manager – Invermay, Jason Douglas, through the email mentioned in the job listing.
Important Tips to Get Selected for This Job
If you want to improve your chances of selection, follow these professional tips.
Highlight Your Livestock Experience Clearly
Mention your direct experience with stock handling, animal health checks, lambing, cattle management, and fencing.
Show That You Can Work With Scientists
Because this is a research farm, show that you can follow protocols and record information accurately.
Mention Any Recording Tools You Have Used
If you have experience with TruTest or similar livestock recording tools, mention it clearly.
Focus on Safety Practices
Safety is a key requirement. Mention that you follow health and safety rules and have experience working with farm machinery and livestock safely.
Be Ready for Physical Work
Farm work is physically demanding. Make sure your cover letter reflects your ability to handle intensive tasks, especially during lambing season.
Job Location: Mosgiel, Dunedin (Otago Region)
Mosgiel is a town near Dunedin in the Otago region of New Zealand. The area is known for agriculture, farming, and rural employment opportunities. Working at Invermay Campus gives you the advantage of living near a major city while still being involved in rural farm operations. This makes the job attractive for people who want farm life with access to city facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the job title for this role?
The job title is General Farm Worker.
Where is the General Farm Worker job located?
The job is based at Invermay Farm, Invermay Campus in Mosgiel, near Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand.
Is this a full-time job or part-time job?
This is a permanent full-time position.
What animals will I work with in this job?
You will work with sheep, deer, and cattle as part of farm management and research trials.
Do I need lambing experience to apply?
Lambing experience is preferred, especially fully recorded lambing beats, but applicants willing to learn can also apply.
How much experience is required for this role?
You need at least 2+ years of previous farm experience.
Is TruTest experience required?
TruTest experience is not required but is considered an advantage.
Do I need a driving licence for this job?
Yes, a current full driver’s licence is required.
What are the main duties of the General Farm Worker?
Main duties include livestock management, lambing work, assisting research trials, field servicing experiments, weed spraying, pasture topping, and repairing fencing.
What is the closing date for applications?
Applications close on Sunday, 22 February 2026.
How can I apply for the General Farm Worker job?
You can apply online through the official AgResearch careers website by submitting your CV and cover letter.
Who can I contact for more information about the job?
You can contact Jason Douglas, Research Farm Manager – Invermay, using the email provided in the job listing.