Job Description
This position will support research, teaching, and extension programs in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences by providing a high level of mechanical skill for the repair and maintenance of a large fleet of farm and agricultural research equipment. Duties include, but are not limited to, pest management, performing and supervising repair work on equipment at the Kentland Farm, in Blacksburg, Virginia. The position will be responsible for keeping the need for outside mechanical repair to…
a minimum. Employee will perform advanced level repairs as well as build/modify equipment for farm operations and research purposes. May carry and use a firearm as part of daily responsibilities upon clearance/approval of the VT Police Department. Supervise staff and wage employees in the absence of the farm manager.
Required Qualifications
- Advanced level of knowledge and experience in repair of gas and diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical systems and emission/DEF systems on automotive and agricultural equipment.
- High level of experience in keeping maintenance records, shop safety, and shop inventory.
- Must have an HVAC license or obtain an HVAC license in 6 months.
- Experience in metal fabrication and welding.
- Advanced level of experience and skills in the operation of farm equipment.
- Experience in employee supervision.
- Experience in the following trades: plumbing, carpentry, masonry, and electrical.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with fertilizer and fertilizer equipment.
- Considerable knowledge of diagnostic equipment and techniques related to a wide variety of agricultural and research equipment.
- Experience in crop research and research plots.
- Experience in crop planting, fertilization, and harvest.
- Preference given for CDL.
- Prefer equipment repair certifications or licensing. Basic computer skills.
Pay Band
4
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Regular
Salary Information
Commensurate with Experience
Hours per week
40
Review Date
10/09/2026 (open until filled)
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brooks Saville at bsaville@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.