Dairy Farm Jobs in Italy: Salary, Duties, Requirements & How to Apply
Italy’s dairy industry is an essential part of its agricultural sector, producing milk, cheese, and other dairy products. This creates a continuous demand for dairy farm jobs in Italy, including positions for milking, feeding, and general farm maintenance. These jobs are ideal for seasonal workers, immigrants, and those seeking agricultural experience.
This guide provides full details about dairy farm jobs in Italy, including duties, salary, eligibility, and the application process.
Job Overview
Dairy farm workers assist with the care and management of cows, goats, or other milk-producing animals. They also handle milking, cleaning, and maintaining the farm environment. Jobs are particularly abundant in regions like Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, and Piedmont.
Common Duties of a Dairy Farm Worker:
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Milking cows, goats, or sheep manually or using machinery
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Feeding and caring for livestock
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Cleaning barns, milking areas, and farm equipment
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Monitoring animal health and reporting issues
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Assisting with milk processing and storage
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Maintaining farm equipment and facilities
Dairy work is physically demanding but offers stable employment, especially on commercial farms.
Salary for Dairy Farm Jobs in Italy
Salaries depend on farm size, location, and experience:
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Monthly Salary: €1,200 – €1,600
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Hourly Wage: €7 – €10
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Experienced Workers: Up to €1,800 per month
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Seasonal Bonus: Available during peak milk production periods
Some farms provide accommodation, meals, or transport, especially for seasonal or foreign workers.
Mobile-Friendly Job Table
| Job Title | Region | Salary (Monthly) | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dairy Farm Worker | Lombardy | €1,200–€1,600 | 0–1 yr |
| Milking Assistant | Emilia-Romagna | €1,250–€1,650 | 0–2 yrs |
| Livestock Caretaker | Veneto | €1,200–€1,700 | 1+ yr |
| Dairy Production Helper | Piedmont | €1,300–€1,800 | 1–3 yrs |
Requirements for Dairy Farm Jobs in Italy
Basic Requirements:
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Age 18 or above
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Physically fit for lifting, walking, and standing long hours
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Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
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Willingness to follow instructions and maintain animal welfare
For Foreign Workers:
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Valid passport
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Seasonal work visa (Lavoro Stagionale) or work permit
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Basic Italian or English communication skills
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Previous farm or livestock experience is advantageous but not mandatory
Seasonal employment is common, typically lasting 3–9 months, with potential for extension or permanent work on larger farms.
How to Apply for Dairy Farm Jobs in Italy
Step 1: Prepare Resume
Highlight any farm, livestock, or manual labor experience.
Step 2: Search for Job Openings
Use Italian agricultural job portals, farm cooperatives, and recruitment agencies.
Step 3: Contact Employers
Direct applications by email or phone are common; some farms accept walk-in applications.
Step 4: Attend Interview or Trial
Employers may assess your ability to handle animals and farm tasks.
Step 5: Secure Job Contract
A formal written contract is necessary, especially for visa processing.
Step 6: Apply for Work Visa
Foreign workers must apply for a Seasonal Work Visa or standard agricultural work permit.
Benefits of Dairy Farm Jobs
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Reliable income, especially during peak production periods
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Accommodation and meals in some farms
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Legal work permits for foreign workers
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Opportunity to gain agricultural and livestock experience
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Potential for long-term employment and skill development
Conclusion
Dairy farm jobs in Italy offer stable employment, practical experience, and decent pay for both locals and foreign workers. With high seasonal demand, especially in northern regions, these roles are ideal for physically fit individuals willing to work outdoors. By demonstrating reliability, animal care skills, and a strong work ethic, workers can secure rewarding positions in Italy’s dairy industry.