Field Equipment Operator I – Agricultural Research

University of Wisconsin; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking an Agricultural Equipment Operator I/II to support a dynamic field research program focused on cropping system ecology, soil health, and diversified agricultural systems at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station.

The role involves day-to-day agronomic management of research plots, including field prep, planting, fertilizing, pesticide applications, and harvests, plus operating and maintaining tractors and field machinery, coordinating with

Qualifications

• Experience operating trucks, trailers, tractors and farm machinery including tillage, planting, cultivation, fertilizing, harvesting, manure handling, feed handling equipment, end loaders and forklifts.
• Experience with maintenance and repair of agricultural equipment, including diagnosing malfunctions.
• Experience or related experience with field crop methodology.
• Experience with safe calibration and application of pesticides, including mixing, loading, documenting work, and coordinating time-sensitive tasks.
• Experience with livestock.

Responsibilities

• Applies pesticides following best practices and regulations (AEO II).
• Operates, cleans, and repairs basic agricultural machines to ensure safety and operability.
• Maintains organization of facilities and supplies; notifies for replenishment when needed.
• Prepares equipment for agricultural activities by staging and readiness checks.
• Documents completion of duties according to policies and procedures.

Skills

Equipment operation

Equipment maintenance

Field crop methods

Pesticide calibration

Livestock experience

Education

High school diploma (preferred)

Tools

CDL

Pesticide applicator license

Job description

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking an Agricultural Equipment Operator I/II to support a dynamic field research program focused on cropping system ecology, soil health, and diversified agricultural systems at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station.

The role involves day-to-day agronomic management of research plots, including field prep, planting, fertilizing, pesticide applications, and harvests, plus operating and maintaining tractors and field machinery, coordinating with