Farm Equipment Mechanic

Job description

The position will perform scheduled, in-depth mechanical maintenance on aquaculture equipment and support systems during the winter season. This role is essential to preparing the farm for spring restocking and the high-demand summer production cycle. The mechanic will carry out preventative overhaul and deep servicing tasks that are not possible during the warmer months, when ponds are stocked and equipment is in continuous use.

Primary duties include the complete removal, disassembly, and repair of paddle-wheel aerators, which are used during the summer for oxygenation. This includes inspecting and replacing worn components such as shafts, bearings, gearboxes, pontoons, belts, and electric motors. Units are tested and reassembled to ensure readiness before spring. The mechanic will also service both diesel and electric-powered water pumps, replacing impellers, seals, and engine parts, and conducting full oil and filter changes, battery replacements, and wiring diagnostics. Routine electrical testing of motor amperage and continuity will also be performed.

The position involves deep servicing of harvest-related equipment, including seine reels and hydraulic harvest boats. This includes changing fluids, inspecting and replacing hydraulic hoses, fittings, and gaskets, performing electrical and engine diagnostics, and ensuring readiness for continuous operation during the harvest season. The mechanic will also perform scheduled maintenance and repair on farm vehicles and trailers, such as feed trucks, ATVs, and tractors. Tasks will include oil changes, brake system repair, battery replacement, fluid flushing, tire and wheel inspections, and lighting or wiring repair.

Additional responsibilities include the installation and pre-season inspection of bird deterrent systems such as overhead wire grids and noise cannons, which must be in place before spring fingerling stocking begins. These tasks must occur during the winter season when ponds are drained or idle. This work cannot be postponed to the production months without compromising fish welfare or interrupting harvest and feeding operations.

Daily duties may vary. Some weekend work possible. The employer reserves the right to increase workers' pay or provide bonuses based on tenure, performance, or other factors that are solely based on the discretion of the employer.

Special Requirements

Job requires having or being able to obtain a drivers license within 30 days of hire. Basic English literacy skills are required. Job will require periods when workers may be exposed to varying weather conditions and extensive pushing, pulling, sitting, walking, stooping, bending, or repetitive movements. Random drug testing and criminal background checks may occur post-hire at the employers expense. These checks may be performed to ensure safe housing and work environments for all workers. Positive drug test results or refusal to comply with testing may result in termination of employment. If employer discovers a criminal conviction record or status as a registered sex offender that employer reasonably believes, consistent with current law, will impair the safety and living conditions of other workers, the employer may terminate the worker (foreign and/or domestic) with notification to OFLC and DHS in accordance with 20 CFR 655.122(n).