Position Overview:
The Agronomy Farm Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of agricultural machinery and equipment used in the planting, cultivation, fertilization, and harvesting of crops. This role supports agronomic practices that enhance crop productivity and soil health, ensuring timely field operations aligned with seasonal schedules. The ideal candidate will have a strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of agronomic practices, and experience operating GPS-guided machinery.
Key Responsibilities:
- Field Operations:
- Operate tractors, sprayers, planters, combines, and other specialized farm equipment for planting, fertilizing, irrigating, spraying, cultivating, and harvesting crops.
- Follow agronomic plans, application maps, and variable rate technology (VRT) prescriptions accurately.
- Assist in soil sampling, crop scouting, and implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
- Equipment Maintenance:
- Conduct daily equipment inspections, perform minor repairs, and report major mechanical issues to the maintenance team.
- Ensure equipment is cleaned, lubricated, and stored properly after use.
- Recordkeeping & Compliance:
- Document field operations, including application rates, product usage, and GPS logs.
- Comply with all safety protocols and regulatory requirements related to chemical application and machinery operation.
- Teamwork & Communication:
- Coordinate with agronomists, farm managers, and other team members to ensure timely and efficient field activities.
- Communicate field conditions, delays, or equipment issues clearly and promptly.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required; post-secondary education in agriculture, agronomy, or a related field is preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience operating large-scale farm equipment.
- Knowledge of agronomy principles, crop inputs, and field preparation techniques.
- Proficiency with GPS-guided systems (e.g., John Deere GreenStar, Trimble, Ag Leader).
- Valid driver’s license; CDL and/or pesticide applicator license may be required or preferred.
- Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons (planting and harvest seasons)
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly.
- Work in various outdoor conditions, including heat, cold, dust, and noise.
- Stand, walk, bend, and operate heavy equipment for extended periods.
Preferred Skills:
- Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
- Familiarity with precision agriculture tools and software.
- Experience with maintenance logs and digital field recordkeeping.
- Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.
Work Schedule & Compensation:
- Competitive hourly wage, depending on experience.
- Bonus programs and incentives
- Full benefits package
- Overtime available during peak seasons.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Extended hours
- Overtime
- Weekends as needed
- Year round work
Experience:
- Agriculture/Farming: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person