Agricultural Technician - Parlier, CA,

New River Community College9 months ago
Parlier, CA, United States
On-site
Full-time
Junior Level (1-3 years)

Job Description

Position Overview

Location: Parlier, CA. Salary: $25.00/hour to $26.12/hour. Under the general direction of the Supervisor, the Agricultural Technician will assist in training small farmers and growers on the effective use of various agricultural technologies and equipment. Through showcases, grower field days, and workshops, this role will demonstrate the latest innovations—from precision farming tools to advanced machinery—to empower farmers to optimize their operations. In addition, the technician will deliver comprehensive training sessions on the proper use and maintenance of equipment while promoting a culture of safety in the field. This is a career appointment that is 100% fixed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate all types of farming equipment and conduct pre-use inspections of vehicles and equipment.
  • Prepare grounds for demonstrations and workshops of farm equipment.
  • Conduct routine maintenance checks on equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity by inspecting fluid levels, lubricating moving parts, and replacing worn-out components as needed.
  • Diagnose equipment malfunctions and perform minor repairs onsite to minimize disruptions to farm operations.
  • Coordinate with maintenance staff or external service providers for more extensive repairs as required.
  • Transport equipment to farmers in the Central Valley region (day trips).
  • Support farmers in setting up equipment and instruct in proper return of equipment.
  • Inspect equipment to ensure functionality and safety upon delivery and pick up.
  • Ensure that all safety protocols and regulations are followed during the transportation of equipment.
  • Maintain records of logistics, delivery dates, condition reports, and any maintenance or repairs performed; keep accurate logs of mileage, fuel consumption, and other relevant metrics.
  • Provide practical, hands‑on training and guidance to farmers on the proper use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of various agricultural technologies and equipment.
  • Assist in safety training and promote a culture of safety among the users of the tools and equipment.
  • Demonstrate use of farming equipment in group settings.

Required Qualifications

  • Hands‑on experience in agriculture or a related industry.
  • Skills to determine use and maintenance of equipment.
  • Strong understanding of small‑scale farming practices.
  • Ability to operate hand and power tools.
  • Experience operating light and medium sized equipment and technology, including tractors.
  • Ability to follow all safety procedures to maintain a safe work environment.
  • Understanding and application of safe work practices for use of equipment in the Tool Lending Program.
  • Demonstrated skills to communicate in writing and verbally within large and small groups to complete tasks and meet project specifications.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate's degree (Bachelor's degree preferred) in agricultural/environmental/crop sciences, technology management, or a related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
  • Bilingual communication/translation abilities in English and Spanish/Hmong/Mien/Punjabi or other languages spoken in the community.
  • Ability to interpret and understand all manuals, directives, and guidelines pertinent to job functions.

Required Skills

Hands-on agricultural experience
Equipment setup and maintenance
Training and demonstration
Equipment repair and diagnostics
Logistics and record keeping
Safety protocols