Dairy farm worker jobs in the United Kingdom remain in high demand in 2026. These roles support livestock care, milk production, and farm operations. Many farms now offer Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, giving international applicants a pathway to work legally while gaining valuable experience in UK agriculture. With salaries ranging from £23,000 to £30,000 per year
In this guide, we explain job responsibilities, salaries, visa requirements, and how to apply for dairy farm worker roles in UK.
Read Also: Dairy Farm Manager Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship
What Does a Dairy Farm Worker Do in UK?
A dairy farm worker’s main responsibility is caring for cows and managing milk production. Key tasks include:
- Animal Care: Feeding, watering, and monitoring the health of dairy cattle; coordinating with veterinarians.
- Milking Operations: Operating automated or manual milking equipment, cleaning machinery, and ensuring hygiene.
- Calving & Breeding: Assisting with calving, monitoring breeding programs, and recording data.
- Farm Maintenance: Cleaning barns, maintaining hygiene, and operating tractors and machinery.
- Record Keeping: Tracking milk output, animal health records, and farm activity logs.
Pro Tip from Farm Manager: “When we managed our farm in Yorkshire, tracking daily milk yields reduced waste by 12% and improved overall herd health.”
Salary Range for Dairy Farm Workers
Salaries vary depending on farm location, experience, and employer. Typical pay includes:
- Hourly Rate: £11.50–£15 per hour
- Annual Salary: £23,000–£30,000
- Overtime: Paid according to UK labor laws
For visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route, the employer must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the UK Home Office.
Visa Sponsorship Requirements
Dairy farm worker jobs may qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship if:
- The employer is a licensed Skilled Worker sponsor.
- The role meets UK salary and skill thresholds.
- You receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- You meet English language requirements.
Seasonal Worker visas also exist for short-term agricultural work (up to 6 months) but do not lead to settlement. Applicants should verify sponsorship eligibility directly through UK Government guidance.
Requirements to Apply
Education & Experience
- Secondary school education is usually sufficient.
- Previous livestock or dairy farming experience is preferred.
- Agricultural machinery skills are advantageous.
Skills
- Knowledge of animal welfare and care
- Ability to operate milking and farm machinery
- Physical fitness for farm work
Language & Driving
- Basic English proficiency required (IELTS may apply)
- Tractor or machinery driving skills increase employability
Benefits of Working on a UK Dairy Farm
Working on a dairy farm comes with several perks:
- Visa Sponsorship through licensed employers
- Accommodation Support on-site or subsidized
- Overtime Pay during peak periods
- Pension Scheme enrollment
- Paid Annual Leave (minimum 28 days, including public holidays)
- Flexible Shift Patterns depending on farm needs
Who Can Apply?
Eligible candidates include:
- UK residents
- International applicants under the Skilled Worker visa
- Applicants from Asia, Africa, Europe, or Latin America meeting eligibility criteria
Selection is based on skills, experience, and visa eligibility, not nationality.
How to Apply for Dairy Farm Worker Jobs in UK
- Prepare a UK-style CV highlighting livestock experience, machinery skills, and agricultural training.
- Verify licensed sponsors via the official UK Home Office list.
- Search for jobs using terms like
- “Dairy Farm Worker Jobs UK 2026”
- “Livestock Jobs UK with Visa Sponsorship”
- “Agriculture Skilled Worker Visa UK”
- Attend interviews, usually online for international candidates.
- Apply for the Visa using the Certificate of Sponsorship if selected
Conclusion
Dairy farm worker jobs in the UK offer a strong pathway for international applicants seeking a stable career in agriculture. With visa sponsorship, competitive wages, accommodation support, and on-the-job training, these roles provide an excellent opportunity to build a future in the UK’s growing agricultural sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience?
While not always mandatory, experience in livestock care or dairy farming improves your chances of selection.
What is the salary range for UK dairy farm workers?
£23,000–£30,000 annually, with overtime pay for extra hours.
Can foreigners get visa sponsorship for these jobs?
Yes, licensed skilled worker employers can sponsor international applicants meeting skill and salary requirements.
Are seasonal worker visas an option?
Yes, but they are temporary (up to 6 months) and do not lead to settlement.
