Equipment Operator/Farm Hand

dlfseedsas

1d•$25•Onsite

About The Position

Equipment Operator/Farm Hand Location: Touchet, WashingtonCome grow with DLF!At DLF, we’re passionate about plants, people, and progress. As a global leader in high-quality grass seed for agriculture and turf, we’re helping create a greener, more sustainable future.We’re currently seeking an Equipment Operator/Farm Hand to join our Research team. This hands-on role combines fieldwork, greenhouse, and lab experience to support innovative plant breeding and seed production projects.What You’ll Do Equipment Operation and Maintenance Operate tractors, combines, planters, sprayers, and specialty research equipment both on and off site. Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on farm and research equipment. Assist with equipment setup, calibration, and cleaning to ensure accurate and efficient field operations. Maintain organized records related to equipment use and service. Field Operations and Farm Support Assist with planting, cultivating, irrigating, and harvesting research plots and production fields. Support seed production activities including threshing, cleaning, drying, and storage. Follow agronomic best practices including irrigation scheduling, fertility applications, and pest management. Supervise and assist part-time labor crews during planting, harvest, and other field activities to ensure safety and quality standards are met. Greenhouse and Lab Support Assist in establishing and maintaining plant nurseries and greenhouse trials. Monitor plant health and assist with watering, transplanting, and general care routines. Support forage quality sampling including drying, grinding, and sample preparation. Assist with basic data entry and recordkeeping to ensure research accuracy and consistency. Inventory & Data Management Assist with seed inventory, organize labeling and storage, and fulfill internal seed requests. Assist with data entry, report generation, and maintenance of research records. Safety and Compliance Follow all company safety procedures and wear required PPE when operating equipment or handling chemicals. Operate equipment in compliance with all safety regulations and company standards. Maintain a safe work environment for self and others. Assist with various duties as needed. This is an active role that includes outdoor fieldwork and physical activity. Physical working conditions includes sitting, bending or standing while performing various tasks. Frequent walking, lifting up to 50 pounds, and continuous use of hands for repetitive tasks are occasionally required. This position works frequently in the fields; therefore the Farm Hand/Equipment Operator will be exposed to potentially hazardous weather conditions and will be required to wear appropriate PPE when handling tools and equipment to avoid chemical exposure.

Requirements

1-2 years of experience operating agricultural equipment or working in farm operations preferred.
High School Diploma or GED required.
Pesticide License required or ability to obtain.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Demonstrated competency in team leadership, communication, supervising small crews, project design and workload planning.
Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
Strong organizational, multi-tasking, prioritization skills and follow-up skills with attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including handheld and desktop computers, and other database software.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to work overtime hours as necessary.

Nice To Haves

Experience in field research, plot management, or greenhouse work is a plus.

Responsibilities

Operate tractors, combines, planters, sprayers, and specialty research equipment both on and off site.
Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on farm and research equipment.
Assist with equipment setup, calibration, and cleaning to ensure accurate and efficient field operations.
Maintain organized records related to equipment use and service.
Assist with planting, cultivating, irrigating, and harvesting research plots and production fields.
Support seed production activities including threshing, cleaning, drying, and storage.
Follow agronomic best practices including irrigation scheduling, fertility applications, and pest management.
Supervise and assist part-time labor crews during planting, harvest, and other field activities to ensure safety and quality standards are met.
Assist in establishing and maintaining plant nurseries and greenhouse trials.
Monitor plant health and assist with watering, transplanting, and general care routines.
Support forage quality sampling including drying, grinding, and sample preparation.
Assist with basic data entry and recordkeeping to ensure research accuracy and consistency.
Assist with seed inventory, organize labeling and storage, and fulfill internal seed requests.
Assist with data entry, report generation, and maintenance of research records.
Follow all company safety procedures and wear required PPE when operating equipment or handling chemicals.
Operate equipment in compliance with all safety regulations and company standards.
Maintain a safe work environment for self and others.
Assist with various duties as needed.