Farm Machinery Technician

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 15,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Overtime pay

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Farm Machinery Technician for a large agricultural operation in Welkom, Free State. The role centers on maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems, with focus on safety and reliability.

You will diagnose mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic faults, perform pre-season checks, overhaul major components, and maintain precise service records. A qualification in mechanical engineering or agricultural machinery and at least four years

Qualifications

• Qualified in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Machinery, or related trade.
• Minimum of 4 years' experience with agricultural machinery.
• Ability to diagnose and repair complex mechanical issues.
• Strong knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulics, and electrical systems.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends.
• Valid driver's license; code 10/14 a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance and servicing on farm machinery.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic faults.
• Conduct pre-season inspections and prepare equipment for planting/harvesting.
• Overhaul and rebuild major components of tractors, combines, and other heavy equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance and repair work.
• Ensure a safe working environment in the workshop and field.
• Operate diagnostic equipment and specialized tools.
• Assist in spare parts inventory management.
• Provide technical support to farm operators when needed.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Diagnostics

Electrical systems

Hydraulics

Reading schematics/manuals

Education

Qualified in Mechanical Engineering or Agricultural Machinery

Tools

Diagnostic equipment

Specialized tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale agricultural operation, is seeking a skilled and dedicated Farm Machinery Technician to join their team in Welkom, Free State. This role is essential for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of all farm equipment. You will be responsible for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of a wide variety of agricultural machinery, from tractors and harvesters to specialized planting and irrigation systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong mechanical aptitude, practical experience with agricultural equipment, and a commitment to safety. This is a hands‑on position that requires proactive problem‑solving and the ability to work efficiently in a demanding agricultural environment located in Welkom, Free State.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine maintenance and servicing on all farm machinery and equipment.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic faults in agricultural machinery.
• Conduct pre-season inspections and prepare equipment for planting and harvesting operations.
• Overhaul and rebuild major components of tractors, combines, and other heavy farm equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of all maintenance and repair work performed.
• Ensure a safe working environment in the workshop and field.
• Operate diagnostic equipment and specialized tools.
• Assist in the management of spare parts inventory.
• Provide technical support and guidance to farm operators when needed.

Requirements

• A recognized qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Machinery, or a related trade.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a mechanic or technician, specifically working with agricultural machinery.
• Proven ability to diagnose and repair complex mechanical issues on various farm equipment.
• Strong understanding of diesel engines, hydraulics, and electrical systems.
• Experience with brands such as John Deere, Case IH, Claas, or similar is advantageous.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• A valid driver's license is required; a code 10/14 license is a plus.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends during peak seasons, in Welkom, Free State.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary based on experience and qualifications, along with overtime pay during busy periods. Benefits include contributions to a medical aid scheme, a pension fund, and opportunities for specialized training in the latest agricultural machinery technology. This role provides stability and the chance to work with state‑of‑the‑art equipment in a vital industry.