Agricultural Equipment Operator

Job description

Workers will operate heavy farm equipment, excavators, tractors, sprayers, harvesters, and trucks to plant, develop, maintain and harvest blueberries. Workers will also perform general farm maintenance activities including but not limited to repairing and maintaining irrigation systems and field equipment. During field operations, workers may be required to drive equipment pulling various implements, tow sprayers and trailers through the field and between the blueberry plants. Before operating any piece of equipment, workers will be instructed in the safe and proper operation of that equipment. Equipment will be driven in a manner to protect operator, other workers, products, crops and equipment.
Qualifications: Proficient in operating heavy farm equipment (excavators, 8000 Series John Deere Tractors, Kubota tractors, etc..), tractors, sprayers, harvesters, trucks, etc. Farm experience required. Must be able to follow instructions. Valid Driver’s License or the ability to obtain a US Driver’s License required (CDL preferred but not required). Maintenance/field mechanical skills required. Ability to multitask. Must be able to lift to 60 pounds. Attach farm implements to equipment and operate to till soil, plant, land develop,
fertilize, spray and harvest. Drive equipment and tow trailers to haul farm related materials, supplies, and harvested crops to designated location as directed by supervisor. Must follow supervisor's instructions. Work will be closely monitored and reviewed for quality. Workers must be able to work outdoors in variable weather conditions and flexible schedules that include hot, cold, rain, and some night shifts. Ability to adjust implements and equipment as necessary to ensure equipment is operating properly and at optimum performance. Will check pre-operation, monitor and maintain engine driven and mechanical equipment: i.e., check oil, coolant levels, refuel, clean, lubricate with grease and make adjustments as necessary. May load and unload trucks and trailers by hand or with forklift. Assist in mixing materials for spraying applications. The Employer attests that these workers will be properly trained by the farm manager and furthermore, the farm manager will be available to ensure that workers understand all chemical labels, safety instructions, and application instructions.

Perform general farm maintenance activities including repairing and maintaining irrigation systems and farm equipment.
Before operating any piece of equipment, each worker will be instructed in the proper and safe operation of that equipment.
Workers will be required to operate equipment according to instructions and in a manner that protects workers and the operation.

Special Requirements

Three months of agricultural work experience required. Perform extensive lifting, carrying and loading of 60 lbs., repetitive pushing, pulling, sitting, walking, standing, bending and twisting. Work is outdoors in extreme temperatures and involves working on equipment from heights of up to 15 ft.

Non-U.S. workers may be displaced as a result of one or more U.S. workers becoming available for the job during the employers recruitment period. Workers may not report for work under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Possession or use of illegal drugs or alcohol on company premises is prohibited and will be cause for immediate termination.