Farm Tractor/Equipment Operator

MNL; Lonsdale (MN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

MNL is seeking a Farm Tractor/Equipment Operator for our Lonsdale, MN seed production farm to operate tractors, combines, sprayers and more, supporting field prep, planting, crop maintenance and harvest with safety and efficiency.

Outside peak season, you will focus on maintenance, repairs and improvements to keep gear ready for the next cycle. You will work with farm leadership and the Shop team to troubleshoot issues and implement practical upgrades.

Qualifications

• Experience operating tractors, combines, skid loaders, sprayers or similar equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude for maintenance and repair of ag equipment.
• Ability to diagnose basic equipment issues and perform routine maintenance and repairs.
• Experience with using shop tools and equipment for mechanical repair and fabrication.
• Ability to work independently while coordinating with a team.
• Strong safety awareness when operating equipment and performing repairs.
• Good troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
• Clear communication with farm operations staff.
• Willingness to obtain Commercial Pesticide Applicator License within 3 months.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractors, combines, skid loaders, sprayers, mowers and other seed production equipment.
• Support field preparation, planting, crop maintenance and harvest activities.
• Safely operate equipment with awareness of field conditions and priorities.
• Assist with equipment setup, calibration and adjustments for different crops.
• Perform routine maintenance including inspections, lubrication and seasonal service.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment issues in field and shop environments.
• Complete repairs on tractors, implements, harvest equipment and other machinery.
• Coordinate with farm leadership and Shop team on complex repairs.
• Assist with equipment modifications, fabrication projects and improvements.
• Maintain tools, equipment and work areas in a safe, organized manner.
• Ensure equipment is configured and ready for scheduled field operations.
• Support manual field work and material handling as needed.

Skills

Equipment operation

Mechanical aptitude

Safety awareness

Team coordination

Troubleshooting

Effective communication

Independence

Education

Pesticide Applicator License

Tools

Shop tools & fabrication

Job description

Do you enjoy operating farm equipment and taking ownership of keeping it running smoothly ? Are you someone who can move from the field to the shop and back again depending on the season ? Do you take pride in maintaining equipment, solving problems, and helping operations run efficiently?

About Us

MNL is a full-service ecological restoration company dedicated to Healing the Earth. Our services include native seed and plant production, shoreline and wetland restoration, prescribed burns, conservation grazing, vegetation management, and ecological consulting. We also support solar and infrastructure projects with pollinator-friendly practices and land stewardship expertise.

MNL's Seed Production team grows, harvests, and processes native seed used in restoration projects throughout the region. This work relies on specialized equipment, efficient field operations, and a team committed to producing high-quality seed while maintaining safe and reliable operations.

The Opportunity

The Farm Tractor/Equipment Operator at our Lonsdale, MN seed production farm plays a key role in seed production by operating tractors, combines, sprayers, and other equipment used throughout the growing season. This role supports field preparation, planting, crop maintenance, and harvest operations while helping ensure work is completed safely and efficiently.

Outside of peak field season, you'll focus on equipment maintenance, repairs, and improvements that keep equipment ready for the next production cycle. Success in this role comes from strong equipment operation skills, mechanical aptitude, and a proactive approach to solving problems before they impact production.

What You Will Do

• Operate tractors, combines, skid loaders, sprayers, mowers, and other equipment used in seed production operations
• Support field preparation, planting, crop maintenance, and harvest activities
• Safely operate equipment while maintaining awareness of field conditions, crop health, and operational priorities
• Assist with equipment setup, calibration, and adjustments for different crops and field conditions
• Perform routine maintenance including inspections, lubrication, preventative maintenance, and seasonal service
• Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment issues in both field and shop environments
• Complete repairs on tractors, implements, harvest equipment, and other farm machinery
• Coordinate with farm leadership and MNL's Shop team on more complex equipment repairs
• Assist with equipment modifications, fabrication projects, and operational improvements
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in a safe and organized manner
• Ensure equipment is properly configured and ready for scheduled field operations
• Support manual field work, material handling, and other farm operations as needed

What You Will Need To Be Successful

• Experience operating agricultural equipment such as tractors, combines, skid loaders, sprayers, or similar equipment
• Mechanical aptitude and experience maintaining or repairing agricultural equipment or related machinery
• Ability to diagnose basic equipment issues and perform routine maintenance and repairs
• Experience using tools and shop equipment associated with mechanical repair and fabrication
• Ability to work independently while coordinating effectively with a team
• Strong attention to safety when operating equipment and performing repairs
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to communicate clearly and work collaboratively with farm operations staff
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License or willingness to obtain within 3 months of employment
• Experience with welding, fabrication, or equipment modifications preferred
• Experience calibrating planting, spraying, or harvesting equipment preferred