Field & Maintenance Operator
We are seeking a reliable and mechanically skilled Field & Maintenance Operator to support daily operations at our Stevia farm in Archer, Florida. This hands-on role is critical to the successful cultivation, harvesting, and maintenance of high-quality stevia crops. The ideal candidate will be equally comfortable operating a variety of farm equipment and performing routine and preventive maintenance to keep all machinery running efficiently in a subtropical farming environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Equipment Operation
- Safely and efficiently operate tractors, planters, cultivators, sprayers, irrigation systems, harvesters, and other specialized equipment used in stevia planting, crop maintenance, and harvesting.
- Perform field activities including soil preparation, planting, weed control, fertilization, pest management, and harvesting according to established protocols.
- Monitor crop conditions and adjust equipment settings for optimal performance in stevia-specific growing requirements.
- Maintenance & Repair
- Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs on all farm equipment, vehicles, and irrigation systems.
- Conduct preventive maintenance schedules to minimize downtime.
- Diagnose mechanical issues and perform basic welding, fabrication, and hydraulic/electrical repairs as needed.
- Maintain accurate records of maintenance performed and parts inventory.
- General Farm Duties
- Assist with irrigation system operation and maintenance, including drip and overhead systems common in Florida agriculture.
- Support field team during peak planting and harvest seasons.
- Follow all safety protocols, including proper PPE usage and equipment operation guidelines.
- Maintain a clean and organized equipment yard and shop area.
- Assist with other farm tasks as assigned by the Farm Manager.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Experience:
- 2+ years of experience operating heavy farm equipment (tractors, sprayers, harvesters, etc.).
- Proven mechanical aptitude and hands-on equipment maintenance/repair experience.
- Previous experience in row-crop, vegetable, or specialty crop farming is strongly preferred.
- Skills & Knowledge:
- Strong mechanical troubleshooting and repair skills (engines, hydraulics, electrical, and small engines).
- Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals and basic technical drawings.
- Knowledge of agricultural best practices, irrigation systems, and safety standards.
- Valid Florida driver's license with a clean driving record; CDL is a plus.
- Ability to work outdoors in Florida's hot, humid conditions and occasional rain.
- Physical Demands:
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs regularly and perform physically demanding tasks.
- Comfortable working long hours during peak seasons (early mornings, evenings, or weekends as needed).
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with stevia or similar high-value crops.
- Welding certification or advanced mechanical training.
- Basic computer skills for maintenance logging.