Farm Mechanics

Job description

Crops/Commodities:
Green Beans and Sweet Corn.
Primary duties (performed the majority of workdays):
Must be able to diagnose, adjust, repair, and overhaul farm machinery and equipment, including sorting lines, conveyor belts, and hydrocooling machines used in corn production and processing. Perform preventative maintenance, service, and repairs on agricultural equipment to ensure optimal performance. Duties include:

• Diagnose mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic problems using test equipment and troubleshooting procedures
• Disassemble machinery and equipment to inspect components for wear, damage, or malfunction
• Repair or replace defective parts, components, and assemblies using hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment
• Assemble and adjust machinery and equipment to ensure proper operation and alignment
• Install new equipment, sorting lines, conveyor systems, and hydrocooling machines on the farm
• Perform welding, grinding, and fabrication work as needed for repairs and maintenance
• Clean and lubricate machinery parts to maintain equipment functionality
• Test repaired or serviced equipment to verify proper operation
• Keep maintenance records and document all service and repair activities
• May operate equipment to test functionality after repairs or maintenance

This job consists of understanding all functions of farm equipment used during the growing season and harvest process. Mechanics will perform regular preventative service, maintenance and repairs on various types of farm equipment. Job duties will include the regular servicing of trucks and other farm equipment, especially sorting lines, conveyor belts and hydrocooling machines. Inspect the equipment for wear, damage, and diagnosis of specific problems that might affect performance. Perform tune-ups, including diagnostics for repair or replacement, and adjust or replace parts, as necessary. Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of equipment.

Outdoor and indoor work required; may involve variable weather conditions when working outside. Work may involve prolonged periods of standing/walking, repetitive movements, bending, stooping, and working at heights. Workers must be able to handle, lift, and carry heavy tools, parts, and equipment.

Must report for work daily wearing work clothing and boots or other durable foot wear. Must wear proper protective footwear that is closed-toe in nature with a non-slip sole, such as work boots or trail-type shoes.

Work is done in the field for long periods of time. Workers may assist in handling product weighing up to 60 pounds and lifting to a height of 5 feet. Workers must work on their feet in bent positions for long periods of time. Work requires repetitive movements and extensive walking. Work required in fields when plants are wet with dew and rain, and may be required during light rain, snow, moderate winds, direct sun, high humidity and extreme temperatures. Temperatures in fields during working hours can range from 40 to over 105 degrees F. Workers may be required to work during occasional showers not severe enough to stop field operations. Allergies to ragweed, goldenrod, honey bees, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, or related chemicals may affect a worker's ability to perform the job. Workers should be able to do the work required with or without reasonable accommodations.

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 timely and proficient manner without close supervision. Workers must obey all safety rules and basic instructions and be able to recognize, understand and comply with safety, pesticide warning/re-entry and other essential postings.

Special Requirements

This job requires a minimum of 6 months of prior experience repairing and maintaining farm equipment, such as sorting lines, conveyor belts and/or hydrocooling machines. Applicants must be able to furnish verbal or written statement establishing relevant prior work experience. Workers must be able to perform all duties with accuracy and efficiency. Saturday work required. Must be able to lift/carry 60 lbs. Employer-paid pre-employment and post-hire drug testing required.