Farm Maintenance Technician

Farm Maintenance Technician

Michigan Apple & Cherry Farm

Position Summary

The Farm Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting farm equipment, buildings, irrigation systems, and orchard infrastructure to support efficient apple and cherry production. This role helps ensure safe, reliable operation of farm assets while supporting seasonal orchard activities and harvest operations.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Maintenance & Repair

• Inspect, diagnose, repair, and maintain tractors, sprayers, mowers, forklifts, harvest equipment, and other farm machinery.
• Perform preventative maintenance including oil changes, lubrication, filter replacement, and seasonal equipment servicing.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic systems.
• Maintain maintenance records and repair logs.

Facility & Infrastructure Maintenance

• Repair and maintain farm buildings, storage facilities, packing sheds, and employee housing as needed.
• Maintain orchard irrigation systems, pumps, water lines, and frost protection equipment.
• Assist with installation and repair of fencing, trellis systems, and orchard support structures.
• Perform welding, fabrication, carpentry, and general repairs.

Orchard Support

• Assist with orchard setup and maintenance projects throughout the year.
• Support planting, pruning, irrigation, pest management, and harvest operations when needed.
• Maintain roads, drainage systems, and farm grounds.
• Operate farm equipment safely and efficiently.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all farm safety policies and procedures.
• Ensure equipment complies with operational and safety standards.
• Identify and report safety hazards, equipment issues, and maintenance needs.
• Maintain a clean and organized workshop and work area.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in equipment maintenance, agricultural mechanics, diesel repair, or a related field.
• Knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
• Ability to operate tractors and agricultural equipment safely.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license.

Preferred

• Experience in apple, cherry, or specialty crop production.
• Welding and fabrication experience.
• Commercial pesticide applicator license or willingness to obtain.
• CDL or equipment operation certifications.
• Experience with irrigation and pump systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 75 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions throughout all seasons.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, bend, kneel, and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Availability to work extended hours during peak seasons, including harvest.

Key Competencies

• Mechanical aptitude
• Dependability and self-motivation
• Attention to detail
• Safety awareness
• Teamwork and communication
• Time management
• Adaptability to seasonal farm operations

Typical Work Schedule

• Full-time, year-round position.
• Standard schedule Monday–Friday with seasonal overtime during spring frost events, summer maintenance projects, and fall harvest periods.

Reports To: Farm Manager / Operations Manager

Location: Michigan Apple & Cherry Orchard Operations

This role is critical to ensuring the farm's equipment, facilities, and orchard systems operate efficiently, maximizing fruit quality and productivity throughout the growing season.

Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $35