Milker
8AI EXPOSURE TODAY8
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST53%
NOT A FORECAST53%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB
STARTING PAY£18,000 - £22,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM AGRICULTURE →
Milker
Milking is a vital role in the UK dairy industry, where skilled professionals ensure the health and productivity of dairy herds. With the increasing demand for high-quality dairy products, this career offers a unique opportunity to work closely with animals and contribute to sustainable farming practices.
THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.
AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.
This job holds up well against AI
AI exposure today is low on our index (8), and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.
The role
As a milker, your primary responsibility is to ensure the efficient and humane milking of dairy cows, which involves operating milking machines, monitoring the health of the animals, and maintaining hygiene standards. This role requires a keen understanding of animal behaviour and welfare, as well as the ability to work long hours in varying weather conditions. You will also be responsible for recording milk yields and ensuring that the milking equipment is properly cleaned and maintained to prevent contamination. In addition to milking, you will often assist with other farm tasks such as feeding the cows, monitoring their health, and participating in breeding programmes. This hands-on role is physically demanding and requires a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a passion for animal care. The dairy industry is evolving, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and animal welfare, making this an exciting time to enter the field.
Daily responsibilities
- Operate milking machines and ensure proper milking techniques are followed.
- Monitor the health and well-being of dairy cows, identifying any signs of illness.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of milking equipment and dairy facilities.
- Record milk yields and other relevant data for herd management.
- Assist with feeding, breeding, and general care of the herd.
Does a degree help here?
A UK degree in agriculture or animal science can provide a significant advantage in this field, equipping candidates with essential knowledge about animal husbandry, veterinary care, and sustainable farming techniques that are highly valued by employers.