Ag Research Equipment Technician

Job Description

About This Role:

The Department of Agronomy at Kansas State University is hiring an Ag Research Equipment Technician to work at the Agronomy Farm in Manhattan, Kansas.  This position performs varied, skilled mechanical work to fabricate, repair, and maintain equipment used in agricultural research. 

Duties and responsibilities include:

• Design, build, and modify equipment used by research projects.  This may involve the modification of existing agricultural equipment or the development of new equipment. Involves the use of machine tools, welders, and other specialized tools. Equipment will be constructed to complete the desired task, while ensuring safe and reliable operations.
• Repair existing farm and research equipment including tractors, combines, trucks, planters, sprayers, applicators, tillage equipment, and other specialized research equipment.  Requires knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and powertrain systems.
• Perform preventative maintenance on equipment to minimize downtime and extend useful life.
• Consult with faculty, staff, and students to determine the equipment needed to facilitate their research projects.  Design custom solutions when equipment is not available from commercial vendors.
• Assist with other farm operations.  This may include the operation of equipment to till, plant, fertilize, apply pesticides, harvest, and transport grain. 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit: https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits.

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion. The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others. The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

Worksite Options:

This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires an associate degree, plus one-year relevant experience; or a high school diploma, plus three years relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Vocational training in the areas of agricultural equipment technology, diesel technology, engineering technology, machine tool technology, and/or welding technology.
• Experience with the diagnosis and repair of agricultural equipment including mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and powertrain systems.
• Experience with equipment fabrication, including the use of machine tools and welders. Ability to build or modify farm equipment for use as specialty plot equipment.
• Experience with general farming operations including planting, harvesting, tillage, and pesticide application.
• Experience in the operation, adjustment, and maintenance of farm equipment.
• Communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical solutions to individuals with less knowledge.

Other Requirements:

• Within 6 months of employment, obtain Kansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Class A.

How to Apply:

Please submit the online application and upload the following documents:

• Letter of Interest
• Resume
• 3 Professional References

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$22 – $32 per hour, salary commensurate with experience.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires an associate degree, plus one-year relevant experience; or a high school diploma, plus three years relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Vocational training in the areas of agricultural equipment technology, diesel technology, engineering technology, machine tool technology, and/or welding technology.
• Experience with the diagnosis and repair of agricultural equipment including mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and powertrain systems.
• Experience with equipment fabrication, including the use of machine tools and welders. Ability to build or modify farm equipment for use as specialty plot equipment.
• Experience with general farming operations including planting, harvesting, tillage, and pesticide application.
• Experience in the operation, adjustment, and maintenance of farm equipment.
• Communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical solutions to individuals with less knowledge.

Other Requirements:

Within 6 months of employment, obtain Kansas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Class A.

Job Responsibilities

• Design, build, and modify equipment used by research projects.  This may involve the modification of existing agricultural equipment or the development of new equipment. Involves the use of machine tools, welders, and other specialized tools. Equipment will be constructed to complete the desired task, while ensuring safe and reliable operations.
• Repair existing farm and research equipment including tractors, combines, trucks, planters, sprayers, applicators, tillage equipment, and other specialized research equipment.  Requires knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and powertrain systems.
• Perform preventative maintenance on equipment to minimize downtime and extend useful life.
• Consult with faculty, staff, and students to determine the equipment needed to facilitate their research projects.  Design custom solutions when equipment is not available from commercial vendors.
• Assist with other farm operations.  This may include the operation of equipment to till, plant, fertilize, apply pesticides, harvest, and transport grain.  

Salary/Pay

$22 – $32 per hour, salary commensurate with experience.

Closing Date

May 31, 2024