Unclassified - Bunkie, LA
posted 5 months ago
The Agricultural Equipment Operator position involves a variety of tasks primarily focused on the harvesting of sugarcane. The role requires the operation of specialized equipment, particularly cane harvesters, to efficiently cut and remove leaves from the crop. Approximately 80% of the job entails equipment operation, which is critical for the successful harvesting process. Operators will also be responsible for loading pieces of sugarcane into wagons, as well as loading and unloading sugarcane at various sites. This position necessitates following the harvester on foot through the fields and at loading/unloading sites to pick up any dropped sugarcane, ensuring that no part of the crop goes to waste. In addition to harvesting duties, the role includes the maintenance and repair of farm equipment, which is essential for ensuring that all machinery operates effectively and safely. Operators will utilize hand tools such as shovels, trowels, hoes, tampers, and knives for various tasks, including tilling soil and performing manual labor to assist in the loading and unloading of sugarcane. General farm maintenance is also a key responsibility, which may involve cleaning equipment using steam cleaners or high-pressure water hoses and ensuring that all farm equipment is in good working order, including mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment. The position requires adherence to good agricultural practices and may involve working in conditions that could trigger allergies to certain plants or chemicals, such as ragweed, goldenrod, honey bees, insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Workers must be available for the entire duration of the temporary employment period, which runs from August 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025. The employer reserves the right to discharge any worker deemed unqualified or unwilling to perform the necessary tasks. Workers will be expected to report to work at designated times, with shifts beginning as early as 3:00 am or 5:00 am, depending on the day's schedule, which may vary due to weather and crop conditions. Workers will have an unpaid lunch break and may be asked to work more than the stated daily hours, but will not be required to exceed 9 hours per day. The employer will evaluate worker performance and compliance with work rules, and may terminate employment for cause if performance does not meet reasonable expectations.