Farm Technician

JOB SUMMARY:

The Farm Technician works within the farming team to improve the growing conditions of research and production crops. Responsible for supporting daily farming operations and assisting with all farm activities including ground prep, planting, irrigation and pesticide applications; managing equipment and working closely with the labor crew to keep operations running efficiently on the Station.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES*:

• Responsible for assisting the farming of crops and greenhouses. Assists the Farm Manager with the day-to-day operation of the farm.

• Responsible for recording seasonal data relating to crop maps, fertilizer, irrigation, and overall growing season performance for each crop.

• Responsible for irrigation management including ensuring that the irrigation systems are maintained and operated correctly. Troubleshoot drip systems and independently determine repair needs if necessary.

• Responsible for pesticide applications (spraying, chemigation or hand applications) and overall upkeep of crops on the station. Spray rig calibration and mixing, loading required in addition to maintaining complete spray records, documentation and posting requirements, as required by law.

• Help track, determine and perform fertilizer applications in the field and greenhouses.

• Work with and direct the work of contract labor crews

• Perform preventative maintenance of farm equipment as needed.

• Assist where needed in harvesting, deseeding and post-harvest activities

• Other duties as assigned

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REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• 5+ years Farm Equipment operation - tractor, sprayers, disc, mulcher, etc.
• Irrigation Management
• Pesticide Application
• Must have general knowledge of farm operations and farm management principles.

• English speaking

• Must be able to work under strict time constraints and requirements.

• Excellent record keeping skills

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:

• Practical hands-on farming experience is necessary.
• Must have and maintain a current pesticide applicator's license (PAC), or ability to obtain one within 6 months of hire

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Vegetable and Flower Crops
• Small Plot work
• Greenhouse experience
• Harvest equipment operation
• Bi-lingual English/Spanish ability is highly desirable but not required.
• Computer experience with Microsoft Office software desired.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma, B.S. in agriculture or related subject, or equivalent knowledge and experience as determined by Sakata

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:

• Practical hands-on farming experience is necessary.

• Must have and maintain a current pesticide applicator's license (PAC), or ability to obtain one within 6 months of hire

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to work with chemicals and other irritating substances.

• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment when required.

• Must be able to work under different weather conditions such as extremes of temperature, dampness, rain and sun exposure.

• Must be able to work in dusty conditions.

• Must be able to walk and stand for long periods of time.

• Must be able to work long and irregular hours.

BENEFITS:

Health & Wellness
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Monthly Wellness Stipend
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Disability Insurance (plans vary by location)

Financial Benefits
401(k) Program + Company Match
Profit Sharing Program via 401(k)

Holiday Bonus

Performance Incentive Bonus Program
Tuition Reimbursement

529 College-Savings Plan
Company-Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance

Time Off & Flexibility
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
14 Paid Company Holidays
2 Floating Holidays

*To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty (as described above) satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.