Description:
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Sr. Fertilizer Operations & Maintenance Operator supports the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the fertilizer facility, mobile equipment and associated fleet. This hands-on role is responsible for equipment readiness, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, fertilizer plant operations and seasonal application or transportation support.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs on fertilizer facility equipment, trucks, trailers, applicators, augers, conveyors and related material-handling equipment.
- Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic and basic electrical issues, complete routine repairs within competency and coordinate qualified external service providers when specialized repairs are required.
- Maintain equipment readiness through lubrication, adjustments, replacement of wear components, seasonal preparation, calibration support and off-season repair programs.
- Maintain maintenance records, parts, tools and supplies, and communicate equipment condition, repair needs and operational risks to management.
- Participate in day-to-day fertilizer facility operations, including receiving, blending, loading, shipping, inventory movement and reconciliation.
- Operate loaders, conveyors, augers, blenders, trucks, trailers, tender units and other equipment within licence, certification and competency requirements.
- Support field application, fertilizer deliveries, product movement and equipment transportation during peak seasons where qualified.
- Conduct pre-use, pre-trip and post-trip inspections; identify unsafe or defective equipment and ensure it is removed from service until repaired.
- Follow safe operating procedures, hazard assessments, lockout/tagout requirements, PPE requirements and environmental, transportation and workplace safety standards.
- Maintain a clean, organized and safe shop, fertilizer plant and yard while supporting housekeeping, yard organization and seasonal preparation.
- Serve as an experienced operational resource by supporting employee training, consistent equipment care, operational discipline and continuous improvement.
- Work collaboratively with sales, agronomy, operations, management, seasonal staff, contractors and customers to support safe, efficient operations and customer requirements.
Qualifications
- Strong mechanical aptitude with practical experience troubleshooting, maintaining and repairing agricultural, heavy-duty, fertilizer, industrial or material-handling equipment.
- Experience operating and maintaining mobile and material-handling equipment, with preference for fertilizer applicators, floaters, loaders, trucks, trailers, conveyors, augers, pumps, motors and drive systems.
- Working knowledge of hydraulic systems, bearings, welding, fabrication and basic 12/24-volt electrical troubleshooting is an asset.
- Agricultural or fertilizer industry experience, including fertilizer handling, blending or application, is preferred.
- Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety, safe equipment operation and sound judgement when addressing equipment or operational issues.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 25 kg, and work extended or flexible hours during peak fertilizer seasons.
- Strong organizational, communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work independently and maintain maintenance records.
- Valid Class 3 Alberta driver’s licence or higher, air brake endorsement and relevant trade, mechanical, agricultural or technical training are assets.