Tractor Operator - Forage Harvester at Promasidor

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