Mechanic, Plant Sciences

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 57,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Saskatchewan seeks a mechanic for the Plant Sciences department to maintain the vehicles and equipment used by research programs, the seed production unit and the department's commercial farming operation on campus.

The role involves diagnosing issues, performing repairs, maintaining parts inventory, and cooperating with faculty, staff and suppliers. Outdoor work and lifting up to 25 kg are required.

Qualifications

• Journeyman certificate as Automotive Service Technician or Heavy Duty Mechanic.
• Experience with safe operation of field equipment and farm machinery.
• Basic welding and fabrication knowledge is an asset.
• Strong English communication and ability to work in teams outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and repair a wide range of agricultural equipment and vehicles.
• Keep inventory of consumables and spare parts; work with suppliers.
• Diagnose problems and propose improvements; work with faculty and staff.
• Operate farm equipment and adhere to western Canadian agricultural practices.

Skills

MS Word

MS Excel

Outlook

English proficiency

Team collaboration

Independent work

Lifting 25 kg

Education

Journeyman cert

Automotive/Heavy Duty

Tools

Field equipment maintenance

Job description

Mechanic, Plant Sciences

Primary Purpose

The Plant Sciences Department at the University of Saskatchewan requires a mechanic to maintain the vehicles and equipment used by the various research programs, the seed production unit and the commercial farming operation located within the Department.

Nature of Work

Reporting to the Superintendent – Field Operations, responsibilities will include the maintenance, repair and storage of a wide variety agricultural research equipment, a large fleet of vehicles, gas and diesel engines, field tractors (15-600 HP), planters, sprayers, combines (both commercial and research), swathers and various other pieces of equipment associated with the unit.

Typical Duties or Accountabilities

The individual should be able to identify problems, devise solutions and suggest improvements where appropriate. The candidate is expected to work under minimal supervision and maintain strong collaborative working relationships with faculty, staff, external suppliers and service providers. The person will need to keep an inventory of all consumables and spare parts associated with equipment operation and perform other duties as assigned. The ability to operate farm equipment and be familiar with western Canadian agricultural practices would be considered a strong attribute.

Education

Journeyman’s Certificate as an Automotive Service Technician or Heavy Duty Mechanic.

Licenses

The individual should be trained or willing to be trained in WHMIS certification, CPR/First Aid and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods. A valid Saskatchewan’s driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Experience

The individual will have some experience in the safe operation of field equipment (tractors, seed drills, sprayers, and combines) as well as training in agricultural equipment maintenance, small engine repair and training in the basics of welding and fabrication. Basic knowledge in western Canadian farming practices and agricultural research techniques would be an asset.

Skills

Good working knowledge of computers and software including MS-Word, MS-Excel, Outlook is required. Candidates should possess strong oral and written communication skills in English and the ability to work both independently and in a team-based collaborative environment. The individual must be willing to work outdoors, be able to work flexible hours during peak times and be able to lift up to 25 kg when required.

Department

Plant Sciences

Status

Term 2 years

Employment Group

Research Positions - Non-union

Full Time Equivalent (FTE)

1.0

Salary

The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $57,129.80 - 91,436.80 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Phase/Band

Salary Band 7

Posted Date

8/12/2026

Closing Date

9/8/2026

Number of Openings

1

Work Location

On Campus

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve:

EDI Framework for Action

We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.

The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us for assistance.