Farm Mechanic & Equipment Operator
Glenmary Family Farm Partnership is a diversified, family-owned agricultural operation located in Rapidan, Virginia. Our farm combines tradition with progressive management practices across multiple enterprises, including row crop production, poultry, a commercial cow/calf herd, stocker cattle, feedlot operations, and registered purebred Angus cattle. This creates a dynamic, fast-paced agricultural environment where no two days are the same. We take pride in maintaining our equipment, caring for our land and livestock, and working together to keep the entire operation running safely and efficiently.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dependable and experienced Farm Mechanic & Equipment Operator to join our team. This hands-on position is responsible for operating, maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing late-model agricultural equipment used in planting, tillage, spraying, harvesting, grain handling, hauling, and other general farm operations.
The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical abilities, experience operating modern farm machinery, and familiarity with GPS and precision agriculture technology. Just as importantly, we are looking for a true team player - someone who willingly shares knowledge, helps coworkers, communicates openly, and understands that the success of the entire farming operation depends on everyone working together.
Key Responsibilities
Farm Equipment Operation
- Safely operate late-model tractors, combines, sprayers, planters, tillage equipment, loaders, trucks, and other agricultural machinery.
- Perform fieldwork including planting, tillage, spraying support, harvesting, mowing, grain handling, hauling, and general farm work.
- Use GPS guidance, auto-steer, equipment monitors, precision agriculture systems, and other in-cab technology.
- Transport farm equipment safely between fields and farm locations.
- Assist with loading, unloading, hauling, and handling crops, seed, fertilizer, chemicals, and other agricultural supplies.
- Help set up and adjust planters, combines, and other equipment to achieve proper field performance.
Farm Equipment Repair & Maintenance
- Perform preventative maintenance on tractors, combines, planters, sprayers, trucks, trailers, loaders, and support vehicles.
- Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and drivetrain issues.
- Service diesel engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems, brakes, bearings, belts, chains, filters, tires, and related components.
- Maintain and repair planting, harvesting, spraying, and tillage equipment.
- Complete pre-season inspections and post-season servicing of major farm machinery.
- Perform welding and fabrication work as needed.
- Keep equipment clean, fueled, lubricated, and ready for safe operation.
- Maintain an organized, clean, and efficient farm shop.
Precision Agriculture Technology
- Operate and troubleshoot GPS, auto-steer, yield monitors, rate controllers, display systems, and other precision ag technology.
- Identify equipment performance issues and communicate repair or service needs to management promptly.
- Assist with equipment calibration, setup, and in-field troubleshooting.
General Farm Responsibilities
- Assist with building repairs, fencing, grounds upkeep, and general farm maintenance.
- Help maintain grain systems, including bins, augers, conveyors, and related equipment.
- Follow all safety procedures involving equipment operation, chemical handling, shop work, and road travel.
- Support other areas of the diversified farming operation as needed.
- Work extended hours during planting, spraying, harvest, and other peak farming seasons.
Qualifications
- Proven ability to safely operate semi-trucks, tractors, combines, sprayers, planters, loaders, semi-trucks, and other agricultural machinery.
- Previous experience maintaining and repairing farm equipment is preferred.
- Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and resolve equipment problems.
- Experience with late-model farm equipment, GPS, precision ag systems, and equipment monitors is a plus.
- Experience with diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical diagnostics, welding, fabrication, and drivetrain repairs is preferred.
- Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record required.
- Ability to lift heavy parts, climb onto equipment, work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and perform physical labor.
- Must be dependable, safety-minded, self-motivated, and willing to work additional hours during busy seasons.
Desired Skills
- Diesel engine repair
- Hydraulic system troubleshooting
- Electrical diagnostics
- Welding and metal fabrication
- GPS and precision agriculture operation
- Planter and combine setup
- Preventative equipment maintenance
- Truck and trailer maintenance
- Grain handling equipment maintenance
- Safe equipment operation and transport
- Strong communication and teamwork
Work Schedule
- Full-time, year-round position
- Seasonal overtime required during planting and harvest
- Some evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required based on weather, crop conditions, and operational needs
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive pay based on skills and experience
- Additional benefits may be available based on experience and individual qualifications