MacKellar Farms is looking for a mechanically minded, self-directed person with an interest in agronomy who enjoys variety, problem-solving, agriculture and working with equipment.
MacKellar Farms is a well-established, family-owned farm and food company near Alvinston, Ontario. We are the only producers of edamame and pumpkin seed in Canada, we process seed soybeans, and grow a variety of traditional field crops. Our equipment and facilities are modern and well maintained, and we work in a friendly, supportive team environment where people have the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to the success of the business.
Production Technician — Position Overview
We are looking for a Production Technician to play a key role in the day-to-day operations of our farm and production facilities. You'll work across crop production, farm equipment, food and seed processing, maintenance and troubleshooting. We're looking for someone who can be given responsibility, work independently, recognize when something isn't right, and either solve the problem or know when to ask for help.
The role includes a wide variety of indoor and outdoor work, ranging from equipment operation and crop production to processing, maintenance, cleaning, yard work and other hands-on seasonal tasks.
Key Qualifications:
Required Soft Skills:
- Self-motivated with a strong attention to detail
- Safety-conscious, particularly around heavy machinery and equipment
- Able to work independently, collaborate with the team, and follow direction when required
- Ability to problem-solve effectively, and willingness to ask for assistance or seek expert guidance when needed.
- Reliable and committed to long-term growth with the company
- Able to perform physically demanding work while maintaining focus and good judgment during busy spring and fall seasons.
- A desire for personal and professional growth
Minimum Hard Skills:
- Class G driver’s license (Class D or A is an asset)
- Understanding of crop production
- Basic computer abilities
- Basic math and record keeping abilities
- Experience in heavy equipment operation, preferably agricultural machinery
- Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and perform basic mechanical, hydraulic and electrical repairs
Additional Skills (Assets):
- Agronomy training and experience
- Advanced mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic repair skills
- Experience in seed or food processing
- Metal fabrication abilities
- Background in farming and crop development
- Advanced computer and digital skills
- Advanced operation of a variety of farm equipment
Key Responsibilities:
Fall and Winter Months
- Operate pumpkin seed grading and dehulling lines
- Assist with food safety and quality control programs
- Maintain accurate production records and participate in audits
- Ensure the production facility remains clean and organized
- Oversee shipping and receiving, including warehouse management
- Monitor and track storage conditions (temperature, pests, seed quality, etc.)
Spring and Summer Months
- Operate farm equipment in season (planting, cultivating, nurse tanks, material handling, spraying etc)
- Crop scouting
- Maintaining yards and buildings
- Working on experimental crop trials and processes
- Contribute to the overall growth and success of the business by learning all aspects of the operation
- Represent MacKellar Farms as a knowledgeable and approachable team member
Growth opportunity — for the right person, this role could evolve into increased responsibility for crop production and eventually a crop management/grower role. We believe that understanding the operation hands-on is an important foundation for taking on greater responsibility over time.
In summary:
This role is ideal for a Jack of All Trades who enjoys variety and takes pride in getting things done. Some days involve operating sophisticated farm or processing equipment and solving complex problems; other days involve routine maintenance, cleaning, yard work or manual tasks. The right person is comfortable with both and takes ownership of whatever needs to be done.
This role provides excellent compensation based on your skills and contributions, with bonuses available. You'll be part of a supportive team environment where collaboration and shared goals are key to our success.
How to Apply:
If you, or someone you know, would love this type of work, please share the post or submit your resume, to [email protected], along with a brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position. We look forward to hearing from you.
Or, if you are curious to learn more about the role, feel free to reach out. We’d be happy to discuss if this position is a good fit for you.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00-$33.00 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
