Agricultural Technician, Senior

Position Overview

Provides support for the Parma Research and Extension Center’s research activities and farm operations by performing and overseeing a variety of skilled tasks, including operating, calibrating, and maintaining hand and tractor-driven equipment for planting, cultivating, irrigating, spraying, harvesting, and storing crops; repairing, modifying, and fabricating agricultural and research equipment using mechanical tools and welding techniques; maintaining buildings, facilities, and grounds, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems, and lawn care; monitoring safe work conditions, supervising temporary staff, and maintaining accurate records of equipment, maintenance, and work performed; and utilizing technical knowledge, post-secondary training, and certifications to support research operations, maintain equipment and facilities, and ensure compliance with safety procedures.

Required Experience

• Repair and maintain hydraulic, electrical, brake, and small engine systems on farm equipment, vehicles, and research equipment
• Modify, repair, and fabricate equipment for field, greenhouse, and laboratory research
• Operate welding equipment (arc, TIG, MIG, oxy-acetylene, wire feed)
• Maintain and repair buildings and facilities, including carpentry, structural systems, plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical systems
• Use and maintain hand and power tools for construction, maintenance, and repair
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic system issues and determine appropriate repairs
• Read and interpret technical service manuals
• Use computers to access email and online resources

Required Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Required Other

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL or obtained in 3 months)
• Professional pesticide applicator’s license or obtain within 6 months

Additional Preferred

• Post-secondary technical/mechanical training or certification
• Experience with computer-controlled vehicle systems
• Proficiency with MS Excel and Word