AGRO Field & Maintenance Operator

Heartland Food Products Group; Town of Florida (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Heartland Food Products Group is seeking an AGRO Field & Maintenance Operator at our Stevia farm in Archer, Florida. The role involves operating heavy farm equipment, performing maintenance and repairs, and supporting daily agricultural tasks for high-quality stevia cultivation.

Ideal candidates will have over two years of experience and a strong mechanical aptitude. This hands-on position requires working in Florida's conditions, ensuring optimal operation of equipment through various farming activities.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating heavy farm equipment.
• Proven mechanical aptitude and equipment maintenance experience.
• Previous experience in row-crop, vegetable, or specialty crop farming preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractors, planters, and specialized equipment for stevia operational needs.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections on all farm equipment.
• Support peak planting and harvest seasons by assisting the field team.

Skills

Mechanical troubleshooting and repair skills

Understanding of agricultural best practices

Ability to operate heavy farm equipment

Knowledge of irrigation systems

Tools

Tractors

Sprayers

Harvesters

Job description

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AGRO Field & Maintenance Operator

Archer Farm

Job Summary

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.