LIC is a farmer-owned co-operative that’s been supporting herd improvement in New Zealand’s dairy sector for more than 115 years. We’re focused on providing superior genetics, reliable testing and diagnostics, integrated on-farm software, and great customer service, all designed to help farmers make smarter decisions every day.

As a proud generational co-operative, we’re here for farmers, their families, and rural communities, not just for today, but for the future. And none of it happens without our people. Whether on farm, in the lab, or behind the scenes, every one of us plays a part in helping New Zealand farmers succeed.

About the Role:   

The Associate Breeding Specialist is a key specialist role within LIC’s Breeding team, reporting to the Breeding Manager and based within the Research & Development group.

In this role, you will lead the day‑to‑day delivery of breeding programmes across three strategically important categories, with a strong focus on the rapidly growing Dairy Beef genetics portfolio. You will do this working closely with senior breeding specialists, who provide guidance, technical oversight, and development support.

Working alongside senior breeding specialists, you will have clear ownership of your assigned programmes, with shared accountability alongside the Breeding Manager and increasing responsibility over time. You will play a critical role in ensuring LIC has access to elite, fit‑for‑purpose genetic material that meets both current and future industry needs.

A core part of the role is building strong industry relationships, and working closely with product, research, and data specialists to translate genetic strategy and market insight into practical breeding outcomes.

Your Key Focus: 

Breeding Programme Leadership

• Support the definition and delivery of breeding objectives aligned with genetic strategy, market demand, and on‑farm performance requirements.

• Identify and contribute to the acquisition elite bulls and genetic material, balancing genetic gain, diversity, and commercial relevance.

Breeder & Industry Relationships

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with beef breeders and strategic genetic partners.

• Act as a credible technical representative for LIC within the beef and wider livestock breeding sectors.

Cross‑functional Collaboration

• Work closely with product managers to align breeding programmes with market needs and go‑to‑market strategies.

• Collaborate with researchers, analysts, and data teams to support evidence‑based breeding decisions.

• Ensure breeding outputs are practical, scalable, and commercially viable.

Genetic & Market Analysis

• Analyse genetic performance, trends, and competitive dynamics across dairy‑beef and non‑dairy genetics.

• Monitor industry and market trends to position LIC for future demand.

• Contribute to the ongoing development of breeding tools, systems, and processes.

Your Skills & Experience:

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Animal Science, Genetics, or a related field, and/or 3+ years’ experience in dairy or beef breeding.

• Strong analytical capability and experience applying genetic and breeding strategies.

• Knowledge of dairy and beef genetics trends, competitors, and market drivers.

• Understanding of New Zealand farming systems and farmer challenges.

• Clear, confident communicator able to translate complex technical information for both technical and farmer audiences.

• Proven ability to build relationships and negotiate successful genetic acquisitions.

• Leadership capability with experience influencing across teams.

• Knowledge of LIC’s products and services is an advantage, but not essential.

In Return:  

In addition to a competitive salary, you'll receive some great benefits including:

• Extra leave days

• Flexible working options

• Discounted health, life, income and disability insurances

• Access to our employee shares scheme

• Wellbeing discounts

• Free onsite parking

• Our Hamilton office is located in a park-like setting, with tennis court, pool, and onsite café and social club!

If you're after a rewarding career that offers development, learning and loads of exceptional experiences then look no further, you've found it. At LIC we are leading the way and we would love to welcome you to the team.