Full-Time
Product Specialist
Agriculture
Halter
201-500 employees
Data-driven pasture management for dairy farms
No salary listed
Melbourne VIC, Australia
In Person
Based in Victoria, Australia; travel domestically and internationally, including weekends.
 Product (1) |
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- Interest in agri-tech, being tech-savvy and not afraid of learning our product's inner details and functionality
- Farming experience is a must-have and be passionate about animals and the future of farming
- Thrive in a fast-paced environment with a high degree of autonomy and resilient & comfortable with ambiguity
- Willing to travel for work (domestic and international) as well as weekends
- A 'get stuff done' attitude
- Experience in leading cross-functional projects or running research trials
- Proven ability to think critically about a problem and reach strong, innovative conclusions
- A phenomenal attitude and a team player with the ability to consistently overcome challenges
- Working closely with our product teams; providing input and feedback to make sure that Halter is always working on the most important threads and that we build what our farmers need
- Leading projects to enable continuous innovation and expansion of the product, from design to execution to conclusion
- Sharing in-depth knowledge and context about Australian farms, animals and virtual fencing throughout Halter
- Partnering with our Business Development and Account Management teams to maintain strong alignment
- Critically thinking about the product end-to-end to proactively and reactively start initiatives valuable for our farmers’’ and their animals
- Working with strategic customers to make sure they are fully utilising the product and receiving value
- Getting virtual fencing set up on new farmers throughout Australia
- Other tasks from time to time to ensure the ultimate success of Halter in the Australia
Halter provides data-driven pasture management for dairy farms. It delivers daily updates on pasture covers, growth rates, and leaf emergence by combining satellite imagery, local weather, biophysical models, grazing data, and seasonal trends. Farmers use the information to decide where and when to graze, optimize fencing and shifting of livestock, and allocate pasture efficiently to boost animal performance. The platform also hosts a community where farmers share experiences and best practices. Halter’s subscription-based service gives farmers ongoing access to the data and tools they need to run their operation more productively and profitably. Goals include helping farmers maximize pasture use and animal productivity, improve resilience to environmental changes, and build a collaborative farming community.
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
Series E
Total Funding
$428M
Headquarters
Auckland, New Zealand
Founded
2016
Get referred to Halter
Find people who can refer or advise you
Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Beef Pro unlocks ~$5,000 per 1% utilization gain on 500-head operations, capturing wasted forage value.
- Direct-to-satellite expands US beef market coverage by 2.5x, unlocking 20 million cattle in remote terrain.
- $314.5M Series E at $2.86B valuation fuels Australia, US expansion and planned Ireland/UK launches by late 2026.
What critics are saying
- Merck's Vence will undercut US pricing with $499 collars and $20/month subscriptions, capturing 15-25% of Halter's target market by 2027.
- Starlink API price hikes under T-Mobile's 2026 terms could force $5-8/month subscription increases, eroding farmer ROI below 2x.
- $220M Series E cash burn at $15M/month leaves 14.5 months runway, risking a 2027 down-round if ARR growth stalls below 25% YoY.
What makes Halter unique
- Halter is the only virtual fencing provider offering direct-to-satellite connectivity via Starlink, eliminating ground towers.
- Beef Pro adds a data-driven planning layer to virtual fencing, enabling 30-40% pasture utilization on rangelands.
- Halter uses solar-powered GPS collars emitting audio and vibration cues to guide cattle without physical fences.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Parental Leave
Unlimited Paid Time Off
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Professional Development Budget
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
↓ -6%1 year growth
↓ -4%2 year growth
↓ -7%A new path for public lands grazing: testing direct-to-satellite virtual fencing in the bighorns. A major barrier to virtual fencing on public lands may be disappearing, and a Bighorn ranching family is helping test what that could mean in practice. Sheridan Community Land Trust is partnering with the Masters family and Halter to pilot direct-to-satellite virtual fencing on their grazing leases within the Bighorn National Forest. The project will test whether smart cattle collars connected to direct-to-satellite capability can function reliably in rugged terrain on public land, eliminating the need for ground-based communication towers. Traditional virtual fencing systems require physical towers to relay signals. On federal allotments, those towers often require separate permits and environmental review. The approval process can be complex and time-consuming. In steep and remote landscapes like the Bighorn Mountains, many towers may be necessary to achieve adequate coverage, increasing both cost and logistical difficulty. Halter's direct-to-satellite capability removes the need for physical towers altogether. That shift addresses both regulatory barriers related to permitting and physical barriers posed by rugged terrain. "At its core, this is about practical land management," said John Graves, SCLT Director of Conservation and Resource Management. "If satellite-based virtual fencing performs reliably without physical infrastructure, it can expand management options across federal, state, and private lands. We are focused on testing how it works on the ground." "We've always known virtual fencing had the power to improve ranch operations. Connectivity was the blocker for the most remote or large-scale operations, and direct-to-satellite removes that," said Craig Piggott, CEO and founder of Halter. "We're excited to see this technology tested on public lands, where infrastructure and permitting requirements have historically limited adoption." Halter recently launched direct-to-satellite connectivity in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. In the U.S., that capability unlocks access for nearly 20 million additional cattle in remote, rugged terrain where cellular coverage is limited or nonexistent. Public land allotments like those on the Bighorn National Forest are often among the most infrastructure-constrained environments. "Direct-to-satellite virtual fence has the advantage of not needing infrastructure on the ground. Direct-to-satellite virtual fence can be implemented by any producer grazing livestock on public land at their discretion and expense," said Zach Palm, Bighorn National Forest Rangeland Management Specialist. The Masters family runs cattle across a mix of federal, state, and private lands, reflecting the structure of many Western ranching operations. "Terrain plays a big role in our day-to-day management. Cattle tend to congregate around water and riparian areas, which requires careful monitoring to prevent overuse," Doug and Stephanie Masters explained, saying, direct-to-satellite virtual fence "allows us to better control grazing patterns, protect sensitive areas, and make more efficient use of our pastures while reducing the need for physical infrastructure." Conservation partners are also watching closely to see how this approach could benefit wildlife and habitat on working lands. "Virtual fencing gives us a new way to protect wildlife habitat while keeping working lands productive," said Linette Sutphin, Pheasants Forever. "Expanding the feasibility of virtual fencing in rugged public-land landscapes gives us more flexibility to protect sensitive habitat areas and maintain wildlife movement across intact landscapes, while still supporting the function of grazing allotments." The implications extend beyond one allotment. There are roughly 24,000 to 25,000 active federal grazing permits and leases nationwide. Grazing is authorized on approximately 155 million acres of BLM land and 93 million acres of National Forest. Federal lands support about 40% of the Western cattle herd and 50% of the nation's sheep herd during the year. Infrastructure costs and permitting requirements have been among the most consistent barriers to broader adoption of virtual fencing on public lands. This pilot in the Bighorn Mountains will help determine whether removing those obstacles changes what is possible. The Masters family will begin using direct-to-satellite virtual fencing this spring.
Why did Founders Fund invest $220 million in cattle management startup Halter?
peter thiel s big bet on solar-powered. Understanding Halter's technology. Halter, a New Zealand-based company, has developed a groundbreaking solution aimed at transforming how farmers manage their cattle. The startup has created a solar-powered collar that utilizes GPS and artificial intelligence to monitor and direct cattle movements. This technology is designed to enhance pasture management, improve animal welfare, and increase overall farm efficiency. How the solar-powered collars work. The collars are equipped with a range of sensors and communication tools that allow farmers to track their cattle in real-time. The collars can emit sounds or vibrations to guide the animals, encouraging them to move to specific locations without the need for physical barriers or human intervention. This method not only reduces labor costs but also minimizes stress on the animals, promoting a healthier environment for livestock. Environmental benefits. One of the most compelling aspects of Halter's technology is its potential environmental impact. By optimizing grazing patterns, the collars can help reduce overgrazing and promote sustainable land use. This is particularly important in the context of climate change, where sustainable agricultural practices are becoming increasingly vital. The collars can also help farmers monitor the health of their pastures, ensuring that land is used efficiently and responsibly. The investment landscape. The $220 million investment from Founders Fund is part of a broader trend where venture capital is increasingly flowing into agritech startups. Investors are recognizing the potential for technology to address challenges in food production, sustainability, and animal welfare. Halter's innovative approach aligns with these trends, making it an attractive investment opportunity. Thiel's vision for the future of agriculture. Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal and a prominent venture capitalist, has long been an advocate for technological solutions to global challenges. His investment in Halter reflects a belief that the future of agriculture lies in leveraging technology to create more efficient and sustainable practices. Thiel's track record of supporting disruptive technologies positions him as a key player in the agritech space. Market potential. The global market for livestock management solutions is substantial, with increasing demand for efficient farming practices driven by population growth and changing dietary preferences. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices, farmers are under pressure to adopt sustainable practices. Halter's technology provides a solution that not only meets these demands but also enhances productivity. Stakeholder reactions. The investment has garnered attention from various stakeholders within the agricultural sector. Farmers, environmentalists, and technology enthusiasts have expressed interest in the implications of Halter's technology. Farmers' perspectives. Many farmers view the solar-powered collars as a game-changer. The ability to manage cattle remotely can significantly reduce the time and labor required for traditional livestock management. Farmers are particularly excited about the potential for increased productivity and reduced operational costs. However, some express concerns about the initial investment required for the technology and the learning curve associated with adopting new systems. Environmental advocates. Environmental organizations have also reacted positively to Halter's approach. The collars' potential to promote sustainable grazing practices aligns with broader goals of reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. Advocates argue that technology like Halter's could play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by promoting better land use and reducing methane emissions associated with livestock farming. Technological community. The tech community has shown enthusiasm for Halter's innovative approach to solving real-world problems. Investors and entrepreneurs alike recognize the potential for agritech solutions to disrupt traditional farming practices. The intersection of technology and agriculture is seen as a fertile ground for innovation, with Halter positioned as a leader in this space. Challenges ahead. Despite the optimism surrounding Halter's technology, several challenges remain. The agricultural sector is traditionally conservative, and many farmers may be hesitant to adopt new technologies. Education and support will be crucial in helping farmers understand the benefits and functionality of the solar-powered collars. Regulatory considerations. Additionally, regulatory hurdles may pose challenges for Halter as it seeks to expand its market presence. Compliance with agricultural regulations and standards will be essential for the company's growth. Navigating these regulations while maintaining innovation will require strategic planning and collaboration with industry stakeholders. Market competition. The agritech space is becoming increasingly competitive, with numerous startups vying for attention and investment. Halter will need to differentiate itself from competitors and continuously innovate to maintain its market position. Building partnerships with farmers and agricultural organizations will be vital in establishing credibility and gaining traction in the industry. The future of livestock management. As Halter continues to develop its technology and expand its market reach, the implications for the future of livestock management are significant. The integration of AI and IoT in agriculture is expected to grow, leading to more efficient and sustainable farming practices. Long-Term implications. The long-term implications of Halter's technology extend beyond individual farms. As more farmers adopt innovative solutions, the entire agricultural industry may shift towards more sustainable practices. This could lead to a reduction in the carbon footprint of livestock farming and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. Potential for global expansion. Halter's technology is not limited to New Zealand; its potential applications are global. As the world grapples with food security challenges, solutions like Halter's could play a crucial role in ensuring that livestock farming remains viable and sustainable. The company may explore opportunities for international expansion, adapting its technology to meet the needs of different agricultural markets. Conclusion. Peter Thiel's investment in Halter represents a significant step forward in the integration of technology and agriculture. The solar-powered cow collars have the potential to revolutionize livestock management, offering benefits for farmers, animals, and the environment alike. As the agritech sector continues to evolve, Halter is well-positioned to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future in farming. Was this helpful? Click on one of the buttons to rate this post. Your choice cannot be undone, but you can change your mind at any time. Last Modified: April 5, 2026 at 5:39 am Share with your friends! Next up on hashe tech news. 05-Apr-2026.
Peter Thiel backs New Zealand's Halter in $220 million Series E for ai-driven cattle management. News summary. Peter Thiel's Founders Fund has led a $220 million Series E funding round for Halter, a New Zealand-based startup specializing in solar-powered smart collars for cattle. Founded by Craig Piggott, Halter's technology allows farmers to manage cattle using virtual fences, audio, and vibration cues, significantly enhancing land productivity. The collars, which also track animal health and fertility, are utilized across New Zealand, Australia, and the U.S., covering over a million cattle. Despite competition from companies like Merck's Vence, Halter differentiates itself with a robust financial ROI and a unique engineering approach, focusing on expanding in the U.S., South America, and Europe.
New Zealand-based Halter, which builds AI-powered collars for cattle, is in talks to raise a fresh round that could push its valuation past $2 billion.