Temporary Farm Equipment Operator

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 34,000 - 37,000; Part time

Job summary

The North Central Research and Outreach Center (NCROC) at the University of Minnesota seeks a Temporary Farm Equipment Operator to support seasonal farm operations. The role involves operating tractors, combines, trucks, and other machinery, assisting with planting, harvesting, and field activities, and performing basic maintenance and safety checks.

Work is outdoors in farm environments with varying weather.

Qualifications

• Experience operating tractors, farm machinery, trucks, or equivalent equipment.
• Ability to safely operate equipment and follow procedures.
• Willingness to learn GPS guidance and electronic systems on modern machinery.

Responsibilities

• Operate farm equipment including tractors, combines, trucks, and mowers.
• Assist with crop harvest, grain handling, and related field activities.
• Perform routine inspections, basic maintenance, and housekeeping of equipment and work areas.

Skills

Operating tractors

Safety awareness

GPS guidance

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Independent work

Tools

GPS guidance systems

Basic equipment maintenance

Job description

Job ID: 375905

Location: All Other - See Job Description

Job Family: Supplemental Employee

Full/Part Time: Part-Time

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Job Code: 0006

Employee Class: Civil Service

Position Overview

The North Central Research and Outreach Center (NCROC) is a diverse agricultural research and outreach facility supporting crop, livestock, environmental, forestry, horticulture, wild rice, and other research programs.

The Temporary Farm Equipment Operator provides seasonal support for NCROC's agricultural and cropping operations. The position operates farm equipment and assists with field activities including tilling, planting, harvesting, grain handling, transportation, mowing, and other seasonal farm operations as assigned.

The employee is responsible for safely operating agricultural equipment, performing routine equipment checks and basic maintenance, and working cooperatively with NCROC staff to complete assigned work safely and efficiently.

Work is primarily performed outdoors in agricultural fields and farm environments. The position may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, pollen, noise, uneven terrain, and other normal farm operating conditions.

Work schedules may vary based on weather, crop conditions, equipment availability, and seasonal operational needs. During planting and harvest, extended hours may be necessary to complete time-sensitive field operations.

Major Areas of Responsibility

Farm Equipment and Seasonal Field Operations - 70%

• Operate tractors, combines, trucks, trailers, mowers, loaders, and other agricultural equipment as assigned.
• Assist with crop harvest and related field operations.
• Operate combines and other harvest equipment under the direction of NCROC farm staff.
• Assist with grain handling, transportation, loading, unloading, and related harvest activities.
• Operate trucks and trailers to transport crops, equipment, supplies, and materials.
• Assist with mowing and other seasonal grounds and field maintenance.
• Assist with planting-related activities as assigned, including operating or supporting equipment used in planting operations.
• Follow established procedures for safely operating all farm equipment.
• Use GPS guidance, monitors, and other electronic equipment used in modern agricultural machinery, or learn to operate these systems as needed.
• Complete field and equipment documentation as required.
• Perform other seasonal agricultural field operations as assigned.

Equipment Maintenance and Basic Repairs - 20%

• Perform routine equipment inspections before and during operation.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance, including lubrication, fluid checks, tire checks, and cleaning.
• Identify equipment problems and report maintenance or repair needs to the supervisor.
• Assist with basic field and shop repairs within the employee's training, experience, and authorization.
• Assist with preparing equipment for daily use and seasonal storage.
• Keep equipment and work areas clean and orderly.
• Follow all established equipment maintenance and safety procedures.

General Farm and Research Support - 10%

• Assist with research plot and field activities as assigned.
• Assist NCROC staff with seasonal agricultural activities.
• Assist with general farm, grounds, and facility maintenance when needed.
• Work cooperatively with farm staff, researchers, and other NCROC employees.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience operating tractors, farm machinery, trucks, or other power-driven agricultural equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to safely operate agricultural equipment and follow established operating procedures.
• Ability to learn and operate GPS guidance systems and electronic equipment used in modern farm machinery.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with supervisors and coworkers.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, including standing, walking, bending, climbing, lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance for heavier materials as needed.
• Ability and willingness to work variable hours, including extended hours, evenings, and weekends when required by seasonal field conditions and operational needs.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $25.63 a hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.