ORANGE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

FARM HAND

DEFINITION

Under general supervision performs duties related to the operation of a small, diversified farm such as planting, fertilizing and cultivating farm crops; cares for and feeds farm animals; maintains farm equipment; and performs related work as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Plants, prunes, waters and fertilizes nursery plants and farm crops.
• Mows lawns, uses a variety of farm equipment, sprays, and weeds and cultivates crops.
• Irrigates pastures; repairs, installs and sets up plumbing and irrigation systems.
• Feeds farm animals such as cattle, sheep and chickens.
• Performs tractor work in the maintenance of the farm operation.
• Performs minor construction of farm building and other structures.
• Performs minor repair and maintenance of building, machinery and equipment; makes minor repairs and replacement to electrical systems.
• Secures and checks buildings
• Operates District vehicles.
• Assists in the care and treatment of students’ animal projects.
• Requisitions supplies, feed, and animals as needed.
• Performs related work as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Basic farm work relating to routine maintenance of building, planting of farm crops, and caring for farm animals;
• Basic knowledge of the use and care of farm equipment and building, crops and farm stock; and
• Appropriate safety precautions and procedures.

Ability to:

• Read and understand the schedule and procedures relating to the operation of a farm school and the use of equipment, supplies and planting used in its operation;
• Apply modern farming methods and principles to diversified farming;
• Make minor, non-technical repairs;
• Perform heavy manual labor;

FARM HAND

• Operate a vehicle observing legal and defensive, driving practices;
• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions;
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work and
• Perform simple and repetitive tasks.

Education:

Individuals possessing the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed above are considered to possess the necessary education. 

EXPERIENCE

General farming experience, including dairy operations, care of livestock, and farming and planting procedures.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate various farm and hand tools and equipment: standing for extended periods of time; bending at the waist; lifting heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds; caring, pushing or pulling items up to 100 pounds, digging; walking over rough or uneven surfaces. This position requires accurate distinguishing of sound, near and farm, vision, depth perception, the ability to provide and receive oral information and direction, and the handling and working with heavy-duty machinery, animals and related farm materials and objects.

Environment:

Indoor and outdoor work environment; and subject to driving a vehicle to conduct work; dust and dirt.

Physical Abilities:

Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate various farm and hand tools and equipment; standing for extended periods of time; bending at the waist; lifting heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds; carrying, pushing or pulling items up to 100 pounds; digging; and walking over rough or uneven surfaces.

Hazards:

Pollen and fumes from fertilizer and animal excrement.

Work Hours/Days:

This position requires flexible hours/days. Although most work can be performed during the customary work week, work may, at times, be required on weekends and holidays and evenings.

Revised 8/19/2002