Farm Equipment Mechanic & Grain Storage Facility Operator

Work description

This position supports winter operations at a grain storage facility and provides mechanical service for farm equipment during the off-season. During the winter grain handling period, responsibilities include the safe and efficient handling of grain throughout all stages of storage and shipment. Duties involve accurately preparing and documenting scale tickets, inspecting incoming loads for compliance with established moisture content and grade quality standards, and transferring accepted grain to the appropriate storage bins using grain conveying systems. Operators must maintain even grain distribution and minimize waste. Grain may also be moved from storage bins to loading bins for outbound shipment, with the operator coordinating the loading process. Manual shoveling is required in areas where automatic conveyor equipment cannot fully remove grain, particularly during bin clean-outs or maintenance operations. Regular housekeeping duties are expected to keep grain storage areas, loading zones, and surrounding facilities clean, safe, and compliant with operational standards. The position also includes performing routine maintenance on grain handling equipment, conducting minor mechanical repairs, and safely climbing vertical grain legs and accessing elevated equipment or storage areas for inspections and maintenance. During the winter months (late November through the end of January), when field equipment is removed from operation, this position also includes responsibilities for the winterization, inspection, maintenance, and repair of all farm equipment and vehicles to ensure they are protected during storage and prepared for the next season. Winterization tasks include draining fluids such as fuel, oil, and coolant; adding fuel stabilizers; disconnecting or removing batteries; lubricating moving parts; sealing engine and cab openings to prevent rodent infestation; applying protective coatings to exposed metal surfaces; and conducting a general assessment to prepare equipment for long-term storage. Additional duties involve post- and preseason inspections to evaluate wear and tear and identify mechanical issues. The mechanic is responsible for overhauling farm machinery, dismantling defective machines, reassembling equipment and components, and testing the operation of critical systems including hydraulics, drivetrains, and electrical components. Tasks may include testing and replacing electrical wiring and parts using test meters, soldering tools, and hand tools; tuning engines; replacing or repairing defective or worn parts; fabricating new metal parts when needed; and patching or replacing bent or torn sheet metal. This position may also involve disassembling equipment for deep maintenance, servicing engines or replacing major components such as pistons or valves, adjusting mechanical systems for optimal performance, and conducting function tests to confirm reliability. Other responsibilities include cleaning equipment, parts, and tools; installing replacement parts; testing electrical circuits for safety and function; applying paint or protective coatings; inspecting equipment for structural defects or wear; and repairing or replacing mechanical and structural components. During snow accumulation, the role includes snow removal duties, which involve operating snow removal equipment to clear driveways, access roads, and equipment paths, and applying sand or salt to maintain safe walking and working conditions. Daily duties may vary. The employer reserves the right to increase workers' pay or provide bonuses based on tenure, performance, or other factors that are solely based on the discretion of the employer.