Niewohner Farms

Irrigation Technician

General Purpose: JSMM Farms (Niewohner Entities) is looking for an Irrigation Technician for Albion NE location to operate, maintain and repair farm irrigation system components; maintain accurate irrigation records; develop and interpret irrigation plans, specifications and details; communicate effectively with others; provide assistance for crop planting; and participate in the harvesting of crops.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Operate, maintain and repair irrigation systems components such as electrical center pivot systems, surface irrigation, flow meters, air vents, flush valves, etc.
• Operate and maintain complex pumping and pipeline systems
• Operate equipment properly and safely
• Closely monitor all irrigation system operations, make adjustments or changes as necessary
• Comply with all CPNRD per regulations
• Maintain records required by CPNRD regulations
• Calculate application rates, acreage, flows and volumes. Follow water balance plan
• Operate and maintain heavy equipment used in the construction and repair of dams, borders, unpaved roads, pivot tracts, etc.
• Operate, set and maintain chemigation pumps used for pesticide applications
• Coordinated irrigation activities with farming activities
• Maintain inventory of parts and supplies needed on a regular basis
• Rotate weekend duty and on call duty
• Notify supervisor immediately of potential CPNRD permit violations
• Keep supervisor informed on the condition of equipment and machinery used on the sites
• Coordinate activities with others
• Operate diesel, natural gas and propane engines
• Operate lagoon pump for lagoon
• Operate smart phone for wagenets
• All other duties as assigned for the company

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of a high school diploma or the equivalent with an additional 1 to 3 years farm labor experience including work with irrigation systems.
• Valid current driver's license with clean driving record
• Chemigation Permit Required (This may be obtained once hired)
• Mechanical interest and aptitude is beneficial.
• Understanding of planting/spraying/harvesting techniques
• Ability to take initiative, learn, grow, and expand knowledge in the job.
• Driven, organized, action-oriented, analytical and ability to multi-task
• Ability to use analytical techniques for problem solving, coordination, and decision making
• Individual must be team oriented.
• Strong communication skills, driven, and goal oriented
• High attention to detail.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds frequently

Must be able to lift and carry 100 pounds occasionally

Must be able to see and read fine detailed reports/computer screen

Must be able to bend, stoop, and manipulate fine items.

Must be able to frequently walk and stand during shift

Must be able to climb ladders occasionally

Must be able to reach at, above or below shoulder level frequently

Dress and Personal Protective Equipment: Must wear appropriate clothing for all operations to protect against injury; no loose clothing; wear gloves when necessary; and any other safety protection device such as safety eye wear.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts, and is occasionally exposed to humid conditions, ambient air, hot and cold temperature, fumes or airborne particles, traffic, and chemicals.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but occasionally high.