Tractor Operator - Forage Harvester At Promasidor
full-time
Job Purpose
To safely and efficiently operate John Deere forage harvesters and associated agricultural equipment for harvesting, chopping, and processing forage crops.
The operator is responsible for achieving high productivity and quality while maintaining equipment in good operating condition and complying with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation:
Operate John Deere forage harvesters safely and efficiently during harvesting operations.
Conduct pre-start inspections before operating the machine.
Set and adjust machine parameters according to crop type, moisture condition, harvesting requirements, and field conditions.
Monitor engine performance, hydraulic systems, cutting/chopping systems, and machine controls during operation.
Maintain appropriate harvesting speed and output to maximise productivity.
Operate associated equipment such as forage wagons, trailers, tractors, and transport units where required.
Harvesting Operations:
Harvest forage crops according to the farm's production schedule.
Maintain required chop length and forage quality.
Monitor crop flow and prevent blockages or unnecessary machine downtime.
Coordinate with tractor, trailer, truck, and field operators during harvesting.
Minimise crop losses and field damage during operations.
Daily Maintenance & Inspection:
Perform daily checks on engine oil, coolant, hydraulic oil, fuel, belts, chains, filters, tyres/tracks, cutting components, and lubrication points.
Grease and lubricate machine components according to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule.
Clean the harvester after operations and keep the machine free from crop residue.
Report abnormal noises, leaks, vibrations, warning alarms, or mechanical defects immediately.
Assist maintenance technicians during servicing and repairs.
Safety:
Comply strictly with farm HSE policies and John Deere operating procedures.
Wear required PPE at all times.
Conduct equipment safety checks before starting work.
Never carry out maintenance or remove blockages while the machine is running.
Follow proper isolation/lockout procedures before maintenance activities.
Maintain safe distances from other personnel and machines during harvesting.
Documentation & Reporting:
Record daily machine operating hours and fuel consumption.
Record harvesting output and field productivity where required.
Report equipment defects and downtime promptly.
Complete pre-start inspection and equipment checklist records.
Provide feedback on machine performance and field conditions to the supervisor.
Required Qualifications & Experience
Ordinary National Diploma (OND) or equivalent, technical/agricultural qualification is an advantage.
2 - 5 years' experience operating forage harvesters or similar heavy agricultural machinery.
Previous experience with John Deere agricultural equipment is highly desirable.
Experience operating tractors, harvesters, loaders, or other mechanised farm equipment.
Basic understanding of diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, and agricultural machinery.
Ability to read and understand machine warning indicators and operator manuals.
Competencies:
Strong machine-operating skills
Mechanical awareness
Good understanding of agricultural operations
Safety-conscious attitude
Ability to identify machine abnormalities early
Good communication and teamwork
Ability to work long hours during harvesting seasons
Strong attention to detail
Good record-keeping discipline
Working Conditions:
Outdoor/field-based environment.
Exposure to dust, noise, heat, vibration, and changing weather conditions.
May require extended working hours during peak harvesting periods.
Must be physically and mentally alert throughout machine operation