Lead Farm Attendant: Precision GPS & Heavy Equipment

Posting Number

req
26564

Yuma Agricultural Center

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Yuma

Yuma, AZ USA

The Yuma Agricultural Center is seeking an organized individual to fill the position of Farm Attendant, Lead (Agriculture Worker III).

This position performs advanced agricultural operations requiring a high level of technical skill in the operation, calibration, and maintenance of heavy equipment and precision agriculture technologies. The incumbent executes land preparation, planting, cultivation, and harvesting activities utilizing GPS-guided systems and specialized implements to support efficient and accurate field operations.

This position assists with overseeing the maintenance and optimization of irrigation systems in alignment with crop production objectives, and serves as a technical resource for equipment operation, and provides support for research initiatives and field activities at the Yuma Agricultural Center.

The Yuma Agricultural Center has two sites: a Valley Farm four miles west of Yuma and a Mesa Farm four miles south of the city. The 274-acre Valley Farm serves as the headquarters for the Yuma Agricultural Center and supports investigations for diversified range of crops, including cotton, small grains, and vegetables, such as lettuce and broccoli. The 240-acre Mesa Farm has been primarily focused on citrus production throughout its history, and more recently, has provided a testing ground for commercial soil amendment technologies designed to support soil health and reduce water-use.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

• Operate and synchronize tractors and cultivation equipment for crop-specific operations such as weeding, cultivation, and field conditioning.
• Calibrate implements to ensure precise application and minimal crop disturbance.
• Assist with adapting techniques based on crop type, soil conditions, and research requirements.
• Operate and precisely configure heavy agricultural equipment for land preparation, including deep ripping, chiseling, disking, plowing, and laser leveling.
• Utilize GPS-guided and precision agriculture technologies to ensure field accuracy, soil uniformity, and optimal seedbed conditions.
• Perform routine inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs to ensure equipment reliability and safety.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and report mechanical or operational issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform diverse farm support activities including operating support equipment (water trucks, graders, backhoes) and assisting with research and infrastructure projects.
• Conduct routine equipment maintenance including cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs.
• Maintain accurate records of daily tractor operations, field activities, and equipment usage.
• Identify and report equipment issues to ensure operational efficiency, safety, and compliance.
• Prepare planting beds using advanced tractor-mounted implements and GPS auto-guidance systems.
• Perform listing and bed shaping operations to achieve consistent row spacing and alignment.
• Monitor and adjust equipment in real time to maintain precision standards.
• Operate and maintain harvesting equipment specific to multiple crops (e.g., combines, cotton pickers, swathers, forklifts, and transport vehicles).
• Ensure efficient harvesting operations while maintaining crop quality and minimizing losses.

• Knowledge of a variety of cultivating equipment for specific crops.
• Strong understanding of land preparation techniques and best practices.
• Ability to operate heavy machinery safely and effectively.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

• Experience with precision agriculture tools and technology.
• Previous experience with all aspects of farming and farming operations.
• Experience operating farm equipment.

Agricultural Exemption

Full Time

40

1.0

Fiscal

Agriculture and Extension