Farm Equipment Operator Job

Summary Description

The Farm Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining agricultural machinery used in feed production, field operations, and daily feeding of cattle. The operator will assist with feed harvesting, silage management, manure handling, and feeding both dairy and beef cattle.
This role is focused on equipment operation and feed management, not milking duties. The successful candidate must be able to work independently, operate machinery safely, and perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment. Work ahours will range between 40-60 hours per week depending on the season.

Major Tasks & Responsibilities

1. Operate modern farm equipment including tractors, loaders, feed mixers, combine harvesters and feeding equipment.
2. Prepare and distribute feed to dairy and beef cattle using tractor and mixer wagon systems.
3. Assist with silage harvesting, feed storage, and feed management.
4. Operate machinery during field operations such as mowing, baling, manure spreading, planting, and harvesting feed crops.
5. Perform daily equipment inspections and preventative maintenance.
6. Troubleshoot minor mechanical issues and perform basic mechanical repairs on tractors and equipment.
7. Assist with manure management and field nutrient application.
8. Transport feed, equipment, or materials around the farm using tractors or farm trucks.
9. Maintain clean and organized equipment and workspaces.
10. Follow all farm safety procedures and equipment operating protocols.
11. Work independently when required and communicate effectively with farm management.

Qualifications & Experience

1. High school diploma or equivalent required – GRADE 12!!
2. Minimum 2+ years experience operating farm equipment.
3. Experience operating modern tractors and feeding equipment required.
4. Experience working on dairy or livestock farms considered an asset.
5. Mechanically inclined with the ability to perform basic maintenance and repairs on farm machinery.
6. Ability to work independently and solve problems without constant supervision.
7. Valid driver’s license required
8. Ability to work longer hours during busy seasons such as silage harvest

Key Knowledge

1. Operation of modern agricultural machinery
2. Feed handling systems and livestock feeding practices
3. Basic mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems used in farm equipment
4. Field crop production and silage management

Key Skills/ Competencies

1. Strong mechanical aptitude
2. Independent work ethic
3. Problem-solving ability
4. Reliability and attention to detail
5. Ability to operate heavy agricultural machinery safely
6. Positive attitude and willingness to work as part of a team

Newland Farms is a family-run operation that combines strong agricultural values with modern farming practices and equipment. The farm produces much of its own feed and operates modern machinery to support daily feeding and field operations. The farm is currently seeking two Farm Equipment Operators to join their team. This role focuses on field work, feed production, and feeding cattle, rather than working in the milking barn. The successful candidate will operate modern farm machinery and assist with daily feeding operations throughout the year. The ideal candidate is independent, mechanically inclined, and capable of solving problems on their own. The position requires someone who is reliable, takes pride in their work, and is comfortable working independently while contributing positively to a team environment.