Train as an AB technician

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
• Minimum height requirement to train is 160cm

Join us this season

If you’re interested in joining our team and helping farmers breed better cows, please click here to register your interest.

Interviews will take place from late January following the busy AB season. If you have any questions about your registration, please contact our team.

Cost of training

The cost of training for 2025 is $899.00 + GST. This covers your first week – we take care of the rest.