Artificial Breeding (AB) technicians are responsible for one of the most important parts of any dairy farmer's seasonal focus - getting cows in-calf.

Each year our team of 900+ AB technicians complete around 4 million inseminations across New Zealand, ensuring the arrival of the next generation of dairy cows and adding value to the genetic improvement in our dairy sector.

Our AB technician training:

We've been training AB technicians for more than 70 years and are proud of the comprehensive training course we provide.

We aim to train at least 100 new AB technicians each year in seven different training sites throughout New Zealand.

Basic training consists of completing and passing the two-week training course. If successful, you will then spend the year as an LIC apprentice. During this time, you will be working alongside an experienced AB technician and required to submit and pass four national unit standards administered by Primary ITO (a nationally recognised training organisation).

On completing and passing all requirements of our 12-month apprentice programme, you will work on your own as a qualified LIC AB Technician the following year.

To train as an AB technician you must have:

• The right to work in New Zealand
• An affinity with animals
• Good communication skills
• A connection or interest in the dairy sector, with a customer focus
• Basic computer literacy (e.g. can you operate a smartphone and iPad)
• Strong attention to detail for accurate recording of breeding information
• A valid driver's licence
• The minimum height requirement to train is 160cm

Join us this season:

If you are based in Southland Location and you're interested in joining our team to help farmers breed better cows, please apply below.  

Timeline: 

• Advertising starts in October 2025 for the 2026 Season.  
• Interviews will take place around late January.  
• Training will take place in late Summer/Autumn.  
• Upon passing the training you may be offered an Apprenticeship to cover the 2026 season.  The dates for the season depend on the region of NZ you live in.  

Cost of Training:  

The cost of training is $989.00 plus GST. This covers your first week of training and we take care of the rest. 

Applications Close: 30 March 2026

If you have any questions about your registration, please contact one of our ABOPs representatives on 027 665 9090.