What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Equipment Operator position at Rhode Island Nurseries?
Rhode lsland Nurseries is seeking a Farm Equipment Operator to join their team in Middletown, Rhode Island.
Rhode lsland Nurseries is a fourth generation, family-owned wholesale grcwerthat has been producing high-quality ornamental nursery stock for the landscape industry since 1895. The operation includes both large-scale field production and an active mulch, compost, and topsoil production operation. Located in Middletown, Rhode lsland, our coastal location tempers our climate to extend our growing season. With over a century of experience, we have built a strong regional reputation for quality products and reliable service.
We are hiring a hands-on Farm Equipment Operator to support nursery field operations, apply pesticides and oversee daily equipment needs. This role is vital in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting a variety of agricultural equipment. You will be involved with seasonal priorities as well as long-term initiatives. We are open to candidates from a variety of industries, who bring strong equipment operation experience and mechanical ability.
We are offering $30 per hour or more, based on experience, along with additional benefits.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate and maintain a wide range of tractors, implements, and heavy equipment
- Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical issues; perform routine maintenance and minor repairs
- Apply insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides to nursery crops while following spray protocols
- Assist with irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting as needed
- Support compost production and material handling within the cornpost operation.
- During offseason/winter: indoor equipment maintenance and preparation
- Provide support across all areas of the operation as needed
Qualifications:
- Experience operating loaders, tractors, and their implements, including spray equipment
- Hands-on mechanical experience with agricultural and heavy equipment
- Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills for mechanical systems
- Basic understanding of chemical application methods, rates, and units for calibration
- 2-year technical degree in agriculture, dieseltechnology, or related field preferred
- Private Pesticide Applicators license or willingness to obtain
- Ability to work 45 hours and weekends during peak season
- Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus
Salary : $30