at G Boucher Fertilizer Inc. in Highgate Center, Vermont, United States
Job Description
Job Summary
The Agricultural Operations Technician supports farm and agribusiness operations through equipment maintenance and repair, pesticide application support, and delivery of fertilizer and seed products. This position requires hands-on mechanical skills, safe equipment operation, regulatory compliance, and the ability to work outdoors in varying conditions. Duties vary seasonally and include shop work, field support, and delivery operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Maintain, repair farm equipment, machinery, and vehicles, including tractors and trucks
- Diagnose mechanical and electrical issues through inspection, testing, and review of reports
- Dismantle, repair, and reassemble equipment using hand tools, welding equipment, lathes, grinders, and saws
- Clean and Lubricate parts
- Test, repair, and replace electrical components and wiring
- Install and repair agricultural irrigation and plumbing
- Maintain accurate repair and maintenance records
- Transport tools and equipment for on-site field repairs as needed
- Assist licensed pesticide applicators with safe, accurate, and timely pesticide applications
- Operate and maintain application equipment including sprayers, spreaders, and support vehicles
- Load, transport, handle, and store pesticides in compliance with federal, Vermont state, and label requirements
- Follow all pesticide safety procedures, PPE requirements, and Worker Protection Standard (WPS) regulations
- Clean equipment and manage rinse water and pesticide containers per Vermont regulations
- Operate straight trucks and trucks pulling tenders, spreaders, and tanks
- Deliver dry and liquid fertilizers and seed products to farm locations
- Load and unload products safely and accurately
- Complete delivery tickets, logs, and required documentation
- Perform daily vehicle and equipment inspections and basic maintenance checks
- Follow all safety, spill prevention, and environmental procedures
- Communicate with dispatch, plant operators, and customers for accurate and courteous deliveries
- Assist with plant, yard, or warehouse operations as needed
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Work performed both indoors and outdoors for extended periods
- Outdoor work may occur during wet conditions, rain, snow, moderate winds, direct sun, high humidity
- Prolonged standing and/or walking, repetitive movements, and frequent bending or stooping required
- Must be able to lift, carry, and handle 50+ lbs.
- Exposure to pesticides with required safety controls and PPE
- Allergies to pollen, insects, or pesticides may affect ability to perform job duties
Safety & Dress Requirements
- Must wear assigned personal protective equipment (PPE) when required
- Must report to work daily wearing appropriate work clothing and durable footwear
- Workers wearing inappropriate clothing will not be permitted to begin work
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred
- Clean driving record required
- Mechanical aptitude and basic equipment maintenance skills required
- Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons, including weekends
- Verifiable job references or documentation of relevant experience required
Skills & Competencies
- Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
- Worker must be able to comprehend and follow instructions and communicate effectively to supervisor in English
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision on routine tasks
- Willingness to learn and comply with agricultural, environmental, and safety regulations
Drug Testing Policy
- Employer-paid pre-employment drug testing required after job offer acceptance
- Random, reasonable-suspicion, and post-accident testing may occur
- Employees testing positive will be immediately terminated and paid for all hours worked
- For non-local or foreign workers terminated due to failed testing, least-cost transportation to the place of recruitment will be arranged at the worker’s expense
