Field Operations Technician

Job Summary

The Field Operations Technician is a versatile and essential role responsible for supporting crop management and general field operations. The primary responsibility of this position is the safe, accurate, and efficient operation of spraying equipment, including self-propelled and pull-type sprayers, to apply fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. This role also supports all phases of field operations—from planting and tillage to harvesting, transportation, and equipment maintenance—and requires adaptability, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Spraying & Chemical Application

• Safely operate, calibrate, and maintain self-propelled and pull-type sprayers to ensure proper application rates and coverage.
• Drive and operate trucks in support of spraying and field operations, including transporting chemicals, equipment, and materials as needed.
• Safely handle, mix, and apply agricultural chemicals (fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides) in compliance with label instructions, company policies, and all local, state, and federal regulations.
• Monitor weather conditions, crop health, and field conditions to determine optimal timing and effectiveness of chemical applications.
• Maintain accurate and timely application records, including products used, application rates, dates, and field information.

General Field Operations

• Assist with planting, tillage, cultivating, and harvesting operations across various crops.
• Operate and maintain a wide range of agricultural equipment, including tractors, combines, tillage tools, grain handling systems, and related machinery.
• Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs on equipment to minimize downtime and ensure safe operation.
• Conduct regular field inspections to monitor crop health, pest pressure, nutrient needs, and irrigation conditions.
• Operate manure hauling or spreading equipment to apply manure to fields in accordance with agronomic plans and environmental regulations.
• Assist with transportation of grain, inputs, and other materials as required.

Other Duties

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment, including equipment, shops, and storage areas.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to coordinate work activities and ensure operational efficiency.
• Assist with feedlot projects, maintenance, or other operational needs when not actively engaged in crop management activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall farm and operational effectiveness.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience operating agricultural machinery, particularly spraying equipment, required.
• Prior experience in field labor, farming, or agricultural operations strongly preferred.
• Commercial pesticide applicator license required, or ability to obtain within a designated timeframe.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong working knowledge of agricultural spraying equipment, calibration methods, and chemical application techniques.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Basic mechanical aptitude for equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record required; Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons and adapt to changing priorities and weather conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, or pull up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods of time.
• Ability to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, and crouch to perform required tasks.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to operate equipment controls, tools, and machinery.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions with exposure to dust, chemicals, noise, and temperature extremes.