Agricultural Equipment Operator / Farm Worker

Job description

Tasks will be related to the grading, packing, loading, planting, growing, cultivating, weeding, fertilizing, pruning, harvesting, and sorting of diverse vegetable and fruit crops. These crops may include, but are not limited to, the following: pears, peaches, apples, strawberries, and other berries, tomatoes, peppers, squash, pumpkins, and other fruits and vegetables. Workers may be required to do any other manual task involved in the production of fruit and vegetable crops. All work must be performed carefully and according to instructions to avoid damage to fruit and vegetable crops. All work must be performed in a safe and sanitary manner to ensure a safe working environment for all workers and the delivery of safe, healthy produce.

In addition to primary manual tasks above, the worker is required to operate and work with many different types of farm machinery for soil preparation, crop planting and maintenance and harvesting. The worker is also required to attach farm implements, such as plow, disc, sprayer, or harvester, to tractor, using mechanic's hand tools. The worker is required to maintain and make minor repairs to the equipment they operate. This work requires physical coordination, decision-making ability, mechanical aptitude and driving skills. The ability to listen to and follow verbal directions is imperative. The worker must have a valid driver’s license and will operate motor vehicles in fields, on public roads between fields, and to other locations as required.

This job requires the appropriate mixing of agricultural chemicals and use of all personal protective equipment by the worker. The worker will operate a tractor with a mechanical sprayer attached containing chemicals/fertilizers used during the process. Under the direction of the supervisor, worker will mix load and apply fertilizer and chemicals using the provided equipment. He must understand instructions and be capable of loading and transporting chemicals, fertilizer and water via tractor or truck, and mix or apply pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or insecticides through sprays, dusts, vapors, soil incorporation or chemical application on trees or plants. The worker maintains spray equipment including preventive maintenance and minor repair, oversees compliance with label requirements, and keeps records regarding control and use of pesticides. He is responsible for the safe storage and use of pesticides in conformance with all regulations.

The worker must be able to work outdoors in dusty and dirty conditions, in extremes of heat and cold, and in inclement weather. He must be able to crouch, bend, and sit on the ground, reach, lift and carry items weighing up to 75 pounds., and must be capable of using various ladders. He must be able to listen to, understand, and follow instructions of supervisors, and must be physically and mentally capable of completing the described job requirements. This job requires 12 months of verifiable prior experience, as described in this section. The employer will comply with re-entry restrictions applicable to pesticides and other chemicals used in the fields. A supervisor will provide instructions and general supervision. Technical horticultural activities will be supervised; however, workers will be expected to perform their general duties in a timely and proficient manner without close supervision. Workers may not report for work while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The possession or use of illegal drugs or alcohol (exception is made for moderate alcohol consumption in company housing during non-working hours) on company property is prohibited and will be cause for termination. The employer, at no cost to the worker, will provide any tools or equipment necessary to perform required tasks to the worker.

Special Requirements

May be exposed to extreme temperatures based on natural weather conditions and entering cold storage facilities for short duration. Must be able to lift 75 pounds. Must be able to carry, position, and climb 20 foot ladder.