Agriculture Equipment Operator - OR 26-0012

Job Title: Agriculture Equipment Operator

Job Summary

The Agriculture Equipment Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining agricultural machinery used in planting, cultivating, harvesting, and field preparation activities. This role supports efficient farm operations while ensuring compliance with safety, food safety, and equipment operation standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

• Operate agricultural equipment such as tractors, harvesters, forklifts, and implements used for tilling, planting, cultivating, spraying, and harvesting crops.
• Adjust equipment settings to match field conditions and crop requirements.
• Monitor equipment during operation to ensure safe and efficient performance.

Maintenance & Inspection

• Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance on equipment, including fueling, lubricating, cleaning, and minor adjustments.
• Identify mechanical issues or malfunctions and report them promptly to supervisors or maintenance personnel.
• Maintain accurate records related to equipment use and maintenance as required.

Field Operations

• Assist with field preparation, irrigation setup, and post-harvest field clean-up.
• Transport crops, supplies, or materials within the farm or between locations.
• Support diversified crop operations as assigned.
• May perform duties of the Farmworker Diversified when required.

Safety, Food Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety protocols, equipment operating procedures, and training requirements.
• Comply with food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Report hazards, unsafe conditions, injuries, or incidents immediately.

Teamwork & Communication

• Coordinate work activities with supervisors, crew leaders, and other team members.
• Follow verbal and written instructions accurately.
• Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and respect in the workplace.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic agricultural equipment operation and safety procedures.
• Ability to operate machinery with precision and awareness of surroundings.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to recognize equipment issues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and climb on and off equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds as required.
• Repetitive hand and foot movements when operating machinery.
• Work performed outdoors in varying weather and temperature conditions.

Work Environment

• Outdoor agricultural fields, farm roads, and equipment yards.
• Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, weather elements, and moving machinery.
• Work schedule may include early mornings, weekends, and extended hours during peak seasons.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
• Minimum 3 months experience operating agriculture or heavy equipment preferred.
• Valid driver’s license as required by the role.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with tractors, harvest equipment, or forklifts.
• Familiarity with diversified crops and farm operations.
• Basic mechanical or maintenance experience.