Agricultural Equipment Operators

Work description

Workers will perform duties assigned by the employer and their supervisors in connection with the transportation of agricultural workers and general agricultural operations. Workers will operate buses, vans, and other authorized vehicles to transport workers between housing locations, designated work sites, fields, groves, greenhouses, the on-site packing house, and other related facilities. Workers will operate vehicles in a safe and responsible manner and in accordance with applicable traffic laws, posted speed limits, seatbelt requirements, vehicle safety requirements, and employer safety procedures. Workers assigned to drive must be at least 18 years of age, or meet any higher minimum age requirement applicable to the particular vehicle or driving assignment under federal or state law. Workers must hold a valid driver’s license appropriate for the vehicle being operated (a driver's license issued by another country that is recognized under state law may satisfy public road driving requirements) Drivers will conduct required vehicle safety checks before and after use, including checking tires, brakes, lights, safety equipment, emergency exits, fluid levels, and other basic safety items. Drivers will maintain required trip or vehicle records, assist with safe passenger loading and unloading, ensure required passenger restraints are used, and perform routine vehicle cleaning, refueling, and basic upkeep. Workers must not operate a vehicle when impaired, overly fatigued, distracted, or otherwise unable to do so safely. Secondary Duties – Agricultural Equipment and Field Operations As needed, workers may also operate agricultural vehicles and equipment used in field crops and related agricultural operations. Such equipment may include forklifts, tractors, and other equipment for which the worker is appropriately trained and authorized to operate. Workers may use this equipment to move supplies and materials, assist with harvesting activities, and transport harvested crops, plants, tools, water, equipment, and other agricultural materials between fields and the on-site packing house. Workers will follow applicable safety procedures, manufacturer instructions, and employer direction when operating such equipment, including applicable rollover protection (ROPS) and seatbelt procedures. Workers may perform routine operator-level equipment care and upkeep, such as inspections, cleaning, lubrication, refueling, and other basic maintenance activities appropriate to the equipment and the worker's training. Workers must be able to reach, bend, stoop, kneel, and lift or carry items weighing up to 75 pounds as needed to perform assigned duties. When transportation or equipment operation duties are not required, or when otherwise assigned by the supervisor, workers may assist with manual harvesting and other general agricultural activities involving the crops identified in the job order. Such duties will be performed under the direction and supervision of the employer.