Farm Aide (Tractor Driver)

About the role

Texas A&M AgriLife Research Department in Weslaco, Texas, is part of the Texas A&M AgriLife system, which includes Extension Service, Research, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Forest Service, and Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. The Farm Aide (Tractor Driver) assists with repairs, building, and maintenance of farm vehicles and equipment, operates farm machinery, and performs a variety of field and facility tasks under supervision.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractors and other farm equipment for tilling soil for planting, cultivating, and spreading crop seeds.
• Complete minor repairs on tractors and farm equipment.
• Drive and carry out regular maintenance and repairs of tractors and other farm implements.
• Operate tractors safely and efficiently.
• Perform inspections of tractors and attachments like graders, rollers, and plows, ensuring they are well‑lubricated.
• Participate in the repair of farm machines, equipment, and vehicles.
• Use tractors to transport materials and pull or push agricultural equipment.
• Operate tractors with laser‑leveling equipment to prepare fields.
• Report any faults or concerns to the Farm Manager and other relevant stakeholders.
• Remain alert while driving and servicing the tractor; always maintain the appropriate speed limit.
• Complete maintenance duties and use farm implements to plow, plant, harvest, spray pesticides, and more.
• Weed, irrigate, harvest, and provide general field plot maintenance support.
• Remove irrigation items from test locations upon completion of a project.
• Provide help in maintaining facilities.
• Mow farm roadside areas.
• Build and repair fences around farm buildings, crops, and animal‑grazing pastures.
• Pickup and discard trash on and around Center facilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Extensive knowledge of operating tractors.
• Experience performing maintenance on tractors and other farming equipment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to recognize hazards and respond appropriately to maintain a safe work environment.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the position.
• Knowledge of workplace health and safety practices and procedures.
• Good attention to detail and concentration skills.
• Excellent hand‑eye coordination and mechanical aptitude.
• Detail‑oriented.
• Demonstrated strength as well as active listening skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs.
• Ability to multi‑task and work cooperatively with others.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Ability to travel within the U.S.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience performing maintenance on tractors and other farming equipment.
• A completed apprenticeship or experience in a similar role (Non‑Commercial) Pesticide Applicator License.

Other Requirements

• Ability to lift or move heavy objects.
• Ability to exert heavy force.
• Comfortable working alone for long periods of time.
• Works in varying weather conditions and during irregular hours as needed.

Pay

Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications. This is an hourly paid position.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and long‑term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12‑15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife.