Also called: Milker, Herdsperson, Milking Parlor Operator
Milks and cares for dairy cows, keeping the milking parlor clean and the herd healthy.
A milker preps each cow, attaches and removes milking units, and watches for signs of mastitis or injury. Big dairies milk around the clock in shifts, and milkers also help with feeding, calf care, and cleaning.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. No degree needed; skills learned on the job.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Dairy Science (2-year), Animal Science.
Shrinking (about -2% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection band for SOC 45-2093: Decline (-1% or lower).
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Robotic milking already runs on many dairies; milker jobs shrink as herds switch, leaving fewer robot-tending roles.
Age 16+. One way to start: Ask local dairies about milker jobs; many hire teens for early morning or evening milking shifts
Classes: Animal science CTE, Biology.
Official data: O*NET occupation 45-2093.
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