Tractor Drivers

Job description

Drive tractors and planters, and operate other mechanized farm equipment to plant, cultivate, and harvest vegetables, by way of example, but not limited to, pepper, mini sweet, bell pepper, broccoli, kale, sugarcane, butternut squash, cauliflower, green beans, and brussel sprout. May use mechanical equipment to assist in planting of sugarcane. Unload harvested vegetables or other materials with mechanized equipment such as conveyors, or handtrucks.

Mow, cut, and weed fields. Prepare and/or clear land for planting using mechanized or hand equipment to remove trash, rocks, or other debris or material that may interfere with planting or harvesting activities. Level land by moving dirt and other materials. Equipment may include tractors, dozers, planters, mowers, plows, sprayers, cultivators or other farm equipment. Perform daily/routine checks of equipment and report any adverse findings to supervisors. Attach farm implements (e.g., plows, harrows, discs, sprayers) using hand tools, lubricate implements as needed.

Apply pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and other crop protectants. Apply fertilizers, plant growth chemicals, conditioners, and other plant related treatments at the correct times depending on plant type, growth, climate and crop conditions.

Workers must operate all equipment properly and in a manner that protects operator, others, the employer's products and property. Failure to comply with safety requirements and operating instructions may result in disciplinary action up to and including immediate termination. Communicate with field workers engaged in planting and harvesting duties to maintain a safe work environment.

Must wear assigned personal protective equipment when required. Must report for work daily wearing work clothing and boots or other durable foot wear. Workers wearing clothing inappropriate for work will not be permitted to start work.

Outdoor work required when plants are wet, or during light rain, snow, moderate winds, direct sun, high humidity and extreme temperatures. Temperatures in fields during working hours may vary. Workers may be required to work during occasional showers not severe enough to stop field operations. Work is done outdoors for long periods of time and requires prolonged periods of standing and/or walking, repetitive movements, and frequent bending and/or stooping. Workers must be able to handle, lift, and carry heavy or bulky objects (product, containers) in accordance with the specified lifting requirements.

Supervisor(s) will provide instructions and directions to workers. Workers must be able to comprehend and follow instructions and communicate effectively to supervisors. Unusual, complex or non-routine activities will be supervised. Workers expected to perform basic duties in a proficient manner without close supervision. Assist with Good Agricultural Practices policies.

Allergies to ragweed, goldenrod, honey bees, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, or related chemicals may affect a worker's ability to perform the job. Persons seeking employment in this position must be available for the entire period requested by the employer. Employer reserves the right to discharge an obviously unqualified worker, malingerer or recalcitrant worker who is physically able but is unwilling to perform the work necessary for the employer to grow a premium quality product, or for any other lawful reason.

Employer may request, but not require, workers to work more than the stated daily hours and/or on a worker's Sabbath or federal holidays. Workers will have an unpaid lunch break. Worker must report to work at designated time and place each day. Daily or weekly work schedule may vary due to weather, sunlight, temperature, crop conditions, and other factors. Employer will notify workers of any change to start time.

Special Requirements

This job requires a minimum of 3 months of agricultural experience handling mechanized tasks including operating agricultural equipment. Applicants must be able to furnish verbal or written statement establishing relevant prior work experience. Work outside in extremely hot or wet weather; perform prolonged bending, reaching and lifting up to 50 lbs.; manual dexterity required. Must be 18 or older.