Orchard Equipment Operator: Full Time, Hourly

Lyman Orchards; Connecticut; On-site; USD 33,062 - 35,817; Full time

Job summary

Lyman Orchards is seeking an Orchard Equipment Operator to safely operate and maintain farm equipment used across Orchard Operations. The role supports planting, mowing, harvesting, irrigation, and general property maintenance, with a focus on safety and efficiency.

The ideal candidate has experience with agricultural machinery, a strong safety mindset, and the endurance to work in varying weather conditions. This is a full-time, hourly position requiring weekend and peak-season availability.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Experience operating tractors and agricultural equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding work.
• Ability to operate machinery in varying terrain and weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractors, sprayers, mowers, forklifts, and other orchard equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform orchard tasks such as mowing, spraying, cultivating, mulching, and transporting materials.
• Load, unload, and move supplies, equipment, and harvested products as needed.
• Follow pesticide application procedures and safety requirements when assisting with spraying operations.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and complete pre- and post-operation checklists.
• Perform routine maintenance, including lubrication, fluid checks, tire inspections, and minor repairs.
• Report equipment malfunctions and maintenance needs promptly.

Skills

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Communication

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Orchard Equipment Operator Job Description

Position Title: Orchard Equipment Operator

Department: Orchard Operations

Reports To: Orchard Manager

Status: Full Time, Hourly

Salary Range: $24-$26/hr. depending on experience.

The Orchard Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating, maintaining, and transporting farm equipment used in Orchard Operations. This position supports all aspects of Orchard Operations, including planting, spraying, mowing, harvesting, pruning, irrigation, and general property maintenance. The ideal candidate will have experience operating agricultural equipment, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to work in varying weather conditions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

• Operate tractors, sprayers, mowers, forklifts, and other orchard equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform orchard tasks such as mowing, spraying, cultivating, mulching, and transporting materials.
• Load, unload, and move supplies, equipment, and harvested products as needed.
• Follow all pesticide application procedures and safety requirements when assisting with spraying operations.

Equipment Maintenance

• Conduct daily equipment inspections and complete pre- and post-operation checklists.
• Perform routine maintenance, including lubrication, fluid checks, tire inspections, and minor repairs.
• Report equipment malfunctions and maintenance needs promptly.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and proper storage.

Orchard Support

• Assist with planting, pruning, thinning, irrigation, and other orchard production activities.
• Support seasonal workforce and harvesting crews when needed.
• Help maintain orchard.
• Participate in snow removal and seasonal property maintenance activities as required.

Safety and Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain compliance with agricultural, environmental, and pesticide regulations.
• Operate equipment in a manner that protects employees, visitors, and orchard assets.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Experience operating tractors and agricultural equipment.
• Ability to safely operate machinery in varying terrain and weather conditions.
• Basic mechanical knowledge and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding work.

Preferred

• Previous orchard, farm, or agricultural experience.
• Forklift certification.
• CDL
• Pesticide Applicator License or willingness to obtain certification.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Strong understanding of farm equipment operation and safety.
• Ability to work independently with supervision.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail and equipment care.
• Ability to prioritize tasks during peak seasonal periods.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, climb, and reach.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and dust.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating machinery.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position with seasonal requirements.
• Availability to work weekends, holidays, and extended hours during harvest and peak production periods.

Core Values

The Orchard Equipment Operator demonstrates a commitment to safety, teamwork, stewardship of the land, quality production, and family-farm values that support the success of the orchard and its customers.