About this role
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 OverviewWe 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 detailSafety-conscious, particularly around heavy machinery and equipmentAble to work independently, collaborate with the team, and follow direction when requiredAbility 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 companyAble to perform physically demanding work while maintaining focus and good judgment during busy spring and fall seasons.A desire for personal and professional growthMinimum Hard Skills:Class G driver's license (Class D or A is an asset)Understanding of crop productionBasic computer abilitiesBasic math and record keeping abilitiesExperience in heavy equipment operation, preferably agricultural machineryStrong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and perform basic mechanical, hydraulic and electrical repairsAdditional Skills (Assets):Agronomy training and experienceAdvanced mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic repair skillsExperience in seed or food processingMetal fabrication abilitiesBackground in farming and crop developmentAdvanced computer and digital skillsAdvanced operation of a variety of farm equipmentKey Responsibilities:Fall and Winter MonthsOperate pumpkin seed grading and dehulling linesAssist with food safety and quality control programsMaintain accurate production records and participate in auditsEnsure the production facility remains clean and organizedOversee shipping and receiving, including warehouse managementMonitor and track storage conditions (temperature, pests, seed quality, etc.)Spring and Summer MonthsOperate farm equipment in season (planting, cultivating, nurse tanks, material handling, spraying etc)Crop scoutingMaintaining yards and buildingsWorking on experimental crop trials and processesContribute to the overall growth and success of the business by learning all aspects of the operationRepresent MacKellar Farms as a knowledgeable and approachable team memberGrowth 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