Farm Technician

Sakata Seed America, Inc.; Woodland (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k) Program with Company Match

Paid Vacation

Job summary

Sakata Seed America, Inc. in Woodland, California is seeking a Farm Technician to support daily farming operations and improve growing conditions for research and production crops. Key responsibilities include assisting with ground preparation, planting, irrigation, and pesticide applications.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of equipment operation experience, proficiency in irrigation, and practical farming skills. Benefits include medical insurance, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of farm equipment operation experience.
• Practical, hands-on farming experience is necessary.
• Must possess a current pesticide applicator's license or be able to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Assist the farming of crops and greenhouses.
• Record seasonal data related to farm operations.
• Manage irrigation systems and perform pesticide applications.

Skills

Farm equipment operation

Irrigation management

Pesticide application experience

English speaking proficiency

Excellent record-keeping skills

Education

High School Diploma or B.S. in agriculture or related subject

Job description

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

• Assist the farming of crops and greenhouses and aid the Farm Manager with day‑to‑day farm operations.
• Record seasonal data related to crop maps, fertilizer, irrigation, and overall season performance.
• Manage irrigation systems, ensuring maintenance and proper operation; troubleshoot drip systems and determine repair needs independently.
• Perform pesticide applications (spraying, chemigation, hand applications); calibrate and mix spray rigs, maintain complete spray records, and meet posting/documentation requirements.
• Track, determine, and apply fertilizers in fields and greenhouses.
• Direct the work of contract labor crews.
• Perform preventative maintenance of farm equipment as needed.
• Assist in harvesting, deseeding, and post‑harvest activities.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• 5+ years of farm equipment operation (tractor, sprayers, disc, mulcher, etc.).
• Proficiency in irrigation management.
• Experience with pesticide application.
• General knowledge of farm operations and management principles.
• English speaking proficiency.
• Ability to work under strict time constraints and requirements.
• Excellent record‑keeping skills.

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND

• Practical, hands‑on farming experience is necessary.
• Must possess and maintain a current pesticide applicator's license (PAC) or be able to obtain one within six months of hire.

DESIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Knowledge of vegetable and flower crops.
• Experience with small plot work and greenhouses.
• Harvest equipment operation.
• Bi‑lingual English/Spanish ability is highly desirable but not required.
• Computer experience with Microsoft Office software.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

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

WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Work with chemicals and other irritants.
• Wear personal protective equipment when required.
• Work under varying weather conditions including extreme temperatures, dampness, rain, and sun exposure.
• Work in dusty conditions.
• Walk and stand for long periods.
• 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 with 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.