Farmhand and Machinery Technician

This 16-week training program is designed for new SkillBridge hires at Riamede Farm entering the Farm Machinery Operator role. The program integrates hands-on farmhand responsibilities, machinery operation, retail customer service, and sustainable agriculture fundamentals. It is structured using ONET codes 49-3041.00 (Farm Equipment Mechanic and Technician) and 45-2091.00 (Agricultural Equipment Operator), with an emphasis on technician and operator skills relevant to Riamede Farm’s operations. Additional daily work as a farmhand will be incorporated into the operator role.

Basic farm field work, including field prep, planting, trellising, watering, nutrient management, pest and weed management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. Farm machinery operation, including tractor operation, implement attachment and calibration, routine maintenance, equipment troubleshooting, and routine cleaning. Specialty crop marketing including retail sales, customer service, farm event planning, product promotion, and point-of-sale system use. Sustainable agricultural practice including farm planning, Integrated pest management, cover cropping, crop rotation, and other projects to support soil health and farm conservation.