Agriculture Equipment Operator

Job description

Workers will be responsible for all tractor operations, including the safe and proper use of specialty blueberry tractors such as mechanical pruners, trimmers, mowers, sprayers and blueberry harvesters. Other equipment may include, but is not limited to, forklifts, farm trucks, ATV's, backpack sprayers, and other commonly used equipment and tools in agriculture. The maintenance and repair of sprinklers (heads, lines, pipes, valves, pumps, etc.) on overhead cooling or other general or specific irrigation systems may also be needed. All training will be provided in the use of machinery and specifically for all the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). During harvest operations, employees must safely operate a blueberry harvester, in accordance with the training received.

The seating of a blueberry harvester is at an elevated position, approximately 8 ft above ground. Employees must be physically able to climb ladders in and out of the harvester and work at elevated heights for long hours. Once the required loads are harvested for the day, operators must wash the machines using a pressurized 1.5" water hose for decontamination. All employees must be comfortable working at night, in a wet environment, and in and around heavy equipment. Workers will be responsible for some of the basic repairs and maintenance of the machines which may include greasing, replacing, and repairing worn machinery parts. For employees who will operate tractor sprayers, it is noted that they will not be responsible for the preparation, mixing and filling of chemicals into sprayers; these workers will either have a valid pesticide license or be supervised by someone with a valid pesticide license. The Employer attests that these workers will be trained appropriately by their supervisor who has a valid Private Applicators' license, which is the standard pursuant to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). Furthermore, their supervisor will be available to ensure that workers understand all chemical labels, safety instructions, and application instructions pursuant to WSDA.

Special Requirements

Specific Job Requirements: Agriculture Machine Operators (blueberry) must have a minimum of verifiable 6 months of prior tractor experience.