Lead Equipment Operator

Position Title:

Lead Equipment Operator Position Type:
Regular
- Full-Time

Requisition  Agricultural Equipment Operator Leeds In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and passionate about creating exceptional work experiences - together. With a customer-first mindset, we make doing business with McCain easy. About the role. Join our farming team and play a vital role in delivering successful crop production from planting through to harvest. As an Agricultural Equipment Operator, you will take ownership of a wide range of arable farming activities, operating modern machinery and equipment to support the efficient day-to-day running of our farm operations.

In this hands-on role, you'll be responsible for carrying out key field activities including soil preparation, planting, ridging, spraying, harvesting, and hedge planting. You'll also help ensure our equipment remains in peak condition through regular servicing, preventative maintenance, and the prompt resolution of breakdowns, helping to keep operations running safely and efficiently. What you'll be doing. Operate a range of modern agricultural machinery including tractors, sprayers, harvesters and other specialist equipment to safely and efficiently deliver all arable farming operations.

Take ownership of day-to-day field activities , supporting crop production from soil preparation and planting through to crop care and harvest. Maintain and service farm machinery , carrying out routine inspections, preventative maintenance and timely repairs to minimise downtime and maximise operational efficiency. Complete off-season machinery maintenance programmes , ensuring all equipment is fully prepared and operational for the season ahead.

Accurately record farming activities and resource usage , including water, fertiliser, crop protection products and fuel consumption. Collaborate closely with Agronomy, Research and Technical teams to support field trials, data collection and the successful delivery of farm projects. Support farm stewardship initiatives , including the planting and maintenance of hedgerows and wider site upkeep activities. Champion a strong safety culture , following all company policies, procedures and safe working practices at all times.

Maintain high standards of housekeeping , ensuring machinery, equipment and work areas are clean, organised and well maintained. Keep training and certifications up to date , continuously developing your skills and knowledge to support safe and effective farm operations. What you'll need to be successful. We're looking for someone who combines practical farming experience with a proactive, safety-first approach and a passion for modern agriculture.

Proven experience operating agricultural machinery, including tractors, sprayers, harvesters and crop storage equipment. Strong understanding of arable crop production, with knowledge of key farming operations throughout the growing season. Experience working with precision agriculture technologies, including GPS-guided machinery and modern harvesting equipment. Practical mechanical aptitude, with experience carrying out equipment servicing, maintenance and basic repairs. Valid driving licence, with any relevant agricultural machinery licences or certifications required for the role.

Confident using technology and farm management systems, with the ability to accurately record and manage operational data. PA1 and PA2 pesticide application certification (or equivalent), with experience safely applying crop protection products. Physically capable of working in an outdoor agricultural environment, including carrying out the practical aspects of the role. Reasonable adjustments will be considered in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Strong commitment to health and safety, with the ability to follow procedures and maintain high operational standards. Self-motivated and able to work independently, whilst also collaborating effectively with colleagues across farm, agronomy, research and technical teams. Benefits. Although we do encourage you to taste the goods, you'll be pleased to know we don't pay you in chips. Alongside your salary, you'll enjoy a range of benefits including:
An excellent salary sacrifice pension scheme where we'll contribute double what you do, up to a maximum of 12% of your salary 25 days' annual leave from day one plus bank holidays (increasing with service), giving you plenty of time to recharge with the opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days…