Farm Attendant (Yuma, AZ)

The Yuma Agricultural Center is seeking a skilled and organized individual to fill the position of Farm Attendant (Agriculture Worker II).

This position performs skilled irrigation operations and supports agricultural field activities to promote efficient crop production. The incumbent manages and maintains water delivery systems, including coordinating with irrigation districts and ensuring proper functionality of irrigation infrastructure. This position also operates tractors and a variety of agricultural equipment to assist with field preparation, planting, and cultivation, and collaborates with farm staff and external partners to support irrigation needs and research initiatives at the Yuma Agricultural Center.

The Yuma Agricultural Center has two sites: a Valley Farm four miles west of Yuma and a Mesa Farm four miles south of the city. The 274-acre Valley Farm serves as the headquarters for the Yuma Agricultural Center and supports investigations for diversified range of crops, including cotton, small grains, and vegetables, such as lettuce and broccoli. The 240-acre Mesa Farm has been primarily focused on citrus production throughout its history, and more recently, has provided a testing ground for commercial soil amendment technologies designed to support soil health and reduce water-use.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

• Under
  supervision, operate, monitor, and maintain irrigation systems including
  furrow/flood, overhead sprinklers, micro-sprinklers, and drip systems.
• Coordinate and
  communicate with irrigation district ditch riders to secure water deliveries
  from main canals.
• Assist with
  managing irrigation pumps, set gates, and adjust flow rates to ensure proper
  water distribution and efficiency.
• Evaluate soil
  moisture and field conditions to optimize irrigation scheduling.
• Assist with
  installing and managing irrigation infrastructure including sprinkler pipe
  setup, drip tape injection, and system layout adjustments.
• Apply
  fertilizers through irrigation (fertigation) in accordance with crop and
  research requirements.
• Assist with
  conducting routine maintenance of irrigation systems and canals, including
  cleaning, repairs, and debris removal to ensure proper functionality.
• Maintain
  accurate irrigation records and logs of water usage and applications.
• Operate
  tractors and implements to support land preparation activities such as disking,
  listing, and light leveling.
• Assist with
  GPS-guided equipment when needed and ensure safe, efficient machinery operation
  in support of irrigation and field activities
• Assist with
  planting, bed preparation, and cultivation using tractors and specialized
  implements.
• Support crop
  maintenance activities and field operations to ensure proper crop establishment
  and growth.
• Assist with
  harvesting, research plots, road maintenance, and general farm duties.
• Perform basic
  equipment checks, report issues, and help maintain a clean and safe work
  environment.

Knowledge,
Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of a
  variety of cultivating equipment for specific crops.
• Strong
  understanding of land preparation techniques and best practices.
• Ability to
  operate heavy machinery safely and effectively.
• Ability to
  communicate clearly and effectively.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of three years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

• Experience with precision agriculture tools and technology.
• Previous experience with all aspects of farming and farming operations.
• Experience operating farm equipment.