Job Descriptions:
A Reference for
Agricultural Employers
Farm Employers Labor Service
Sacramento, California
In cooperation with the
Agricultural Personnel Management Program
University of California
Job Descriptions:
A Reference for Employers
Roberta D. Gruber and L. George Daniels III
Farm Employers Labor Service
Legal Reviewer: Carl G. Borden
California Farm Bureau Federation
July 1997
Table of Contents |
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Seasonal Agricultural Worker I |
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Appendix A - Instructions for Job Analysis Sheet |
Technical and financial support for this publication was provided by the Agricultural Personnel Management Program, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California. The authors are grateful to Stephen R. Sutter and Howard R. Rosenberg for substantial advisory contributions.
Publication Notice: This publication provides educational information compiled from reference sources that Farm Employers Labor Service (FELS®) believes to be authoritative and current. FELS® is not rendering legal, medical, or other professional advice by publishing this material. In no event shall FELS® be liable for any claim, however designated, for consequential or other damages attendant to its interpretation or use.
Job descriptions have traditionally been used by large manufacturing organizations more than by agricultural firms, big or small. In many cases they have been adopted in connection with a union contract. Today, however, employers of all types are realizing advantages of developing and having job descriptions.
The need for effective human resource management is not specific to any industry or size of firm, and litigation under various laws and regulations frequently calls attention to the importance of current, complete and correct job descriptions. Employers are subject to a multitude of legal requirements and prohibitions. Accurate job descriptions can be very useful when an employee, applicant, or government agency challenges a hiring or other employment decision. Job descriptions may even be requested by agencies investigating disputes that are not resolved internally.
In 1964 the U.S. Congress passed landmark legislation designed to reduce discrimination that is not related to performance in the workplace. Since then, additional laws both at the federal level and in California have banned such discrimination in employment decisions--including recruitment, hiring, promotion, layoff, and dismissal. Legal guidelines emphasize that these decisions are to be job-related, based on the actual content and performance requirements of jobs.
More recently, the listing of a job's duties and responsibilities has taken on extra significance with the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals who have physical or mental disabilities that may limit a "major life activity" but that, if reasonably accommodated, would not keep them from performing essential job functions. It gives weight to the employer's judgment as to what functions of a job are essential, especially if stated in a written description prepared for recruitment or selection. Naturally, employers who have not identified the essential functions of a job in question are at a disadvantage when attempting to defend against challenges of their employment decisions under the ADA.
Although written job descriptions are helpful in keeping management practices consistent with laws, they are not required by any state or federal rules. Probably the most substantial benefits of job descriptions are realized through better management decisions and employer-employee relations apart from legal concerns. Well prepared job descriptions embody information that can be useful in all the classical functions of management: planning, organizaing, staffing, leading, and controlling. The job description is a very practical, relatively simple tool that supports personnel management and employee communications every day. Written descriptions are helpful particularly in:
o Recruitment. Job announcements based on written descriptions that clearly outline functions and requirements give potential candidates a reasonable basis for deciding whether or not to apply, and they tend to attract a more suitable pool.
o Selection and Hiring. In identifying the abilities and knowledge needed to perform a job, the job description helps supervisors and others who hire to focus on job-relevant criteria when choosing from the applicants.
o Wage and Salary Administration. Setting a pay rate in relation to other jobs within the company and similar jobs in other companies requires more of a basis for comparison than job title alone. The job description provides it.
o Orientation. Guided by a job description, supervisors can better anticipate what employees new to the company or the job need to know and help them minimize adjustment time. Employees can learn about their responsibilities both directly from a written description and by asking questions when reading the description.
o Performance Appraisal and Employee Development. The statement of duties in a job description is the foundation for evaluating employees with respect to actual performance dimensions rather than personal attributes or traits. It puts the discussion of an employee's capabilities, talents, strengths, deficiencies, and advancement aspirations into the context of the current job and other opportunities within the company. Job descriptions may also be used to inform employees of typical promotional sequences and requirements.
o Workers' Compensation Claim Management. Before recommending that an injured employee return to work, a treating physician needs to know about the normal demands of the employee's job. In addition, if provided with writtn job descriptions, physicians who treat employees under workers' compensation insurance may be able to detect links between injuries and job functions that could be redesigned.
Barriers to Job Descriptions
If written job descriptions are so helpful, why doesn't every employer use them? One reason is that many employers simply have not recognized that clear representations of what jobs entail are fundamental to several aspects of careful personnel management. If you are among those employers, kindly re-read the previous section.
A common objection to the use of written job descriptions stems from concern about losing flexibility to manage, especially when technology or other conditions are changing. Understandably, employers do not want their very written words to restrict their right to direct what workers do on the job or how they do it. The legendary, "that's not in my job description," however, need not be a problem to any employer making reasonable assignments to workers. In fact, the employee who does not have a written job description may be more likely to feel that a supervisor's directive is overstepping rightful bounds. Wording within a description can advise employees that they are expected to adapt to new methods when introduced or to perform related tasks, even if not specified, that contribute to overall operations. Sub-heading the list of job functions as "Examples of Duties" (or of Major Functions) conveys a similar message.
Finally, and perhaps most typically, many employers do not use written job descriptions because the task of developing them looms too large or uncertain. The main purpose of the publication now in your hands is to lower this barrier by providing (1) brief guidance on the process of developing descriptions and (2) many simple examples of agricultural job descriptions that can be expanded and modified to fit a given company.
Writing Job Descriptions
An examination of the job, or "job analysis," is the logical precursor to the writing of a job description. Like other aspects of personnel management, a job analysis may be conducted through various methods that range in formality and complexity. Common to all the methods is the gathering of information about a job. Whether it involves the job incumbent, the supervisor, co-workers, an office staff member, a consultant, or others, the collection of information to be summarized in the written description is essential.
Some managers may feel so close to all the company operations that they draw solely on their own existing knowledge when writing job descriptions. Most, however, rely on or supplement their initial understanding with information collected through systematic observation, interviews with employees, worker activity logs, or other forms of incumbent reports.
Though not a substitute for descriptions customized to positions in a given organization, generic references that describe similar jobs can serve as models and help in launching local job analyses from which to modify them. Accordingly, the examples in this manual are presented as starting points, working drafts for you to further develop and refine to fit your operation.
They were obtained and formulated from a few sources, including actual company files, the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (a publication of the U.S. Department of Labor), and responses from agricultural employers to a FELS questionnaire.
Another preparatory step toward writing job descriptions is creation (or review) of an organization chart that graphically represents the groupings and reporting relationships among jobs in the company. The chart below, for example, indicates that mechanics are all within a single unit supervised by the shop foreman, that the office manager and financial advisor are staff who report only the owner and have no direct supervisory responsibility, and that the three foreman all report to the ranch manager. Note that the organization chart carries no information about the duties associated with respective jobs, other than lines of supervisory responsibility.
______________________ _ Owner/President _ ______________________ | ________________ ___________________ _________________ _ Financial _ _ Ranch Manager _ _ Office _ _ Advisor _ _ _ _ Manager _ ________________ ___________________ _________________ / | \ ________________ ___________________ _________________ _ Irrigation _ _ Shop _ _ Crop Foreman _ _ Foreman _ _ Foreman _ _ _ ________________ ___________________ _________________ | | | ________________ ___________________ _________________ _ Irrigation _ _ Mechanics _ _ Field _ _ Crews _ _ _ _ Crews _ ________________ ___________________ _________________
When all the necessary information and helpful references are at hand, it is time to write. The structure of a complete job description typically includes the following components:
1. Job title. Descriptive of the job content.
2. Summary or Purpose. A one or two-sentence overview of the position and its role in the organization.
3. Essential Functions. The meat of the job. Duties and responsibilities that the incumbent must perform, with or without a reasonable accommodation for any disability, are listed in this section,preferably in a consistent form. We recommend beginning the description of each function with an active verb and listing the functions in order of either their operational significance or the portion of work time spent on them.
4. Other Functions. Duties and responsibilities that may be related to the essential functions but are not central to the position. Factors to consider in determining whether a function is essential to a job include: relation to the very purpose for existence of the job, actual requirements that the incumbent perform the function, consequences of removing the function from the job, portion of time spent performing the function, requirement of special expertise for the function, and availability of employees in other jobs to perform it.
5. Qualifications. The abilities, skills, knowledge, and other attributes (e.g., possession of a license, willingness to travel) that are needed to perform the functions of the job. Also referred to as the "job specification," these physical and mental qualifications are the job-related criteria on which to discriminate wisely and legally among applicants in selecting employees for jobs.
6. Supervision and Working Relationships. Identification of the position or person to whom the incumbent reports, and of others to which the incumbent is operationally connected. Incumbent responsibility for supervising others would be best included within the sections on Essential or Other Functions.
7. Special Conditions of Work. Any aspects of the work environment that are likely to significantly affect the incumbent and are not obvious from the job title or description of functions. Examples are: unusual or varying schedule of work, high noise level, rapidly changing technology necessitating continuous learning, and requirement to supply own tools.
No matter who writes the first version of a job description, it is always a good idea to have it reviewed by others who are familiar with the job, including not only but especially a current or recent job incumbent. We suggest that after making appropriate revisions, you or a supervisor take a few moments to review the description with the employee, answer questions about it, discuss the need for any further changes, ask him or her to indicate understanding the description by signing it, provide a copy to that employee, refer back to it whenever evaluating the worker's performance, and check it each year or two for continued accuracy.
We sincerely hope that this reference will contribute to the clarity and effectiveness of communications between you and your workforce.
Nursery Retail
Summary: Responsible for the superivsion of personnel, production, sales (retail), purchasing and customer relations. Directly supervises all departments and retail store employees. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors.
Qualifications:
o Requires a minimum of five years experience in the management of personnel in the retail trade, and a minimum of three years experience in wholesale nursery production. A Bachelors Degree in Business or equivalent.
o Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
Supervisory Responsibilities:
o This position supervises _______ employees/departments
Working Conditions:
o General office environment. Quiet surroundings. Sufficient lighting
Essential Functions
o Ability to communicate expectated goals to managers.
o Ability to coordinate the production, distribution and sales of inventory.
o Ability to develop, change and delete company policies as necessary.
o Ability to manage the business to produce a profit
o
Physical Demands
o Primarily sedentary work in an office with desk with chair.
Title Nursery Production Manager
Summary Responsible for the planning, scheduling of crop rotation, crop purchasing for propagation and efficient utilization of growing areas. Production Manager supervises production employees, develops new product lines to be sold in retail store and coordinates the sale of wholesale products.
Qualifications
o Requires a minimum of three years of experience in nursery stock
propagation and the wholesale nursery trade.
o Bilingual in English & Spanish.
o Able to give instructions
o Ability to explain new procedures, set priorities, prepare reports.
Essential Functions
o Plans, organizes and coordinates the work of production employees.
o Interviews, hires and fires production employees.
o Assigns work according to employee ability. Teaches, trains and explains to employees correct methods and makes sure they understand the methods.
o Analyzes production problems and helps initiate solutions. Assists employees with work-related problems; helps employees improve job performance by explaining mistakes to them.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Hire, discipline, terminate employees
Physical Demands
o Able to move between work stations as necessary
o Able to climb up onto and down from equipment
o Able to demonstrate proper equipment operating procedures
Summary Performs various tasks to assist with the management of the operation. The supervisor acts as liaison between management and workers.
Qualifications
o Knowledge of company operations and equipment.
o A/A degree in related field or equivalent work related experience
o Bilingual in English and Spanish.
o Understanding of OSHA regulations and Injury & Illness Program
Essential Functions
o Report and record work activity or progress.
o Assist subordinate employees in performing specific duties.
o Maintain equipment in proper operating condition
o Ensure company policies are followed and maintain employee safety and health
o Train employees on equipment
o Records and maintains time sheets.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Hire, discipline, terminate employees
o Enforce company safety policies
Physical Demands
o Climb up onto and down from equipment
o Lift up to 50 pounds.
o Climb up and down ladder as necessary
o Able to manipulate small hand tools.
Summary Oversees the functions of a business office
Qualifications
o Minimum of three years experience in office management
o Ability to set priorities, explain procedures, give instructions and coordinate the work of subordinate employees
Essential Functions
o Prepares correspondence.
o Purchases office supplies, maintains inventory.
o Maintains employee records.
o Purchases office equipment
o Writes reports for management
o Hears and relates to management employee grievances
Summary Assists in the coordination of office activities, performs Secretarial functions, maintains accounts receivable and accounts payable.
Qualifications
o High School diploma/GED or equivalent related work experience.
o Experience in bookkeeping responsibilities.
Essential Functions
o Type, copy and mail correspondence.
o Operate office equipment.
o Maintain filing and record keeping system.
o Answer telephone
o Greet public.
o Operate computer system.
o Accounts payable/accounts receivable.
o Produce monthly reports.
Summary Supervises ground preparation, planting, weed control and all additional work necessary for crops to be planted and grown for harvesting.
Qualifications
o Valid driver's license
o Previous experience with supervising workers.
o Have knowledge of operation and equipment and be familiar with ground preparation and planting equipment.
o Knowledge of pesticides and their uses. Understanding of OSHA and EPA regulations
o Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Essential Functions
o Assist subordinate employees in performing specific duties efficiently and correctly.
o Ensure tasks are done correctly and efficiently.
o Report to management of problems/successes.
o Determine appropriate equipment for job.
o Maintain time records
o Assist with training in safety procedures and ensure compliance. Able to reprimand employees for failure to comply with safety policies.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Hire, discipline, terminate employees
o Conflict resolution skills
Physical Demands
o May lift up to 75 pounds.
o Able to climb up and down from equipment.
o Able to demonstrate proper operation procedures.
Summary Supervises crews of 10 - 30 workers in the planting, cultivation and harvesting of grapes
Qualifications
o Valid drivers license
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
o Experience with vineyard operations
o CPR/First Aid training
o Understanding of Worker Pesticide Standard and OSHA regulations
Essential Functions
o Assist subordinate employees in performing specific duties efficiently and correctly.
o Communicate to management of problems/successes.
o Determine appropriate equipment for job.
o Direct the work of crew.
o Explain and demonstrate work techniques and safety regulations to inexperienced workers.
o Assist with training of safety procedures and ensure compliance. Able to reprimand employees for failure to comply with safety policies.
o Maintain time reports
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Hire, discipline, terminate employees
Physical Demands
o May lift up to 100 pounds.
o Able to climb up on and down from equipment.
o Manipulate small hand tools.
Summary Carries out specific jobs as assigned by the Vineyard Foreman.
Essential Functions
o Responsible for the completion of specific tasks as assigned.
o Prunes and ties grape vines
o Trains and removes suckers from vines as needed.
o Prunes vines according to instructions, cuts away excessive growth using pruning knife and shears.
o Installs and maintains trellises/supports.
Physical Demands
o Manipulate small hand tools
o Correctly and safely use power tools as required
o Mount and dismount equipment
Title Seasonal Agricultural Worker I
Summary Responsible for the planting, cultivation and harvest of crops.
Qualifications
o Prior experience in planting, cultivation and harvesting of crops
Essential Functions
o Prepares soil, plants seed
o Thins fruit/weeds to improve crop/fruit quality.
o Harvests crop
o Installation and maintenance of irrigation system.
o Clears field of rocks and other debris.
o Performs other duties as assigned.
Physical Demands
oMay lift up to 100 pounds.
o Able to manipulate small hand tools
o Able to climb up and down ladders
Title Seasonal Agricultural Worker II
Summary Responsible for learning how to plant, cultivate and harvest quality fruits/crops.
Qualifications
o Able to follow and understand written and oral instructions
Essential Functions
o Assist with soil preparation
o Assist with planting seed
o Installation and maintenance of irrigation system
o Clearing field of rocks and other debris
o Harvest crop
Physical Demands
oMay lift up to 100 pounds.
o Able to manipulate small hand tools.
o Able to climb up and down ladders.
Summary Under supervision, performs a variety of manual, repetitive tasks such as watering, weeding, loading/unloading containers, pruning, trimming and staking. May be assigned other functions as needed.
Qualifications
o Able to follow and understand written and oral instructions
Essential Functions
o Identify weeds from crop.
o Determine if correct quantity of seed is being distributed from equipment.
o Perform other duties as assigned
Physical Demands
o Able to move between operation locations as required
oLift up to 50 pounds.
o Able to manipulate equipment as necessary
Summary Operates tractor to plow, cultivate and fertilize field.
Qualifications
oValid commercial driver's license.
o Calibrate agricultural implements such as spray nozzles, operate backhoes and wheel & crawler tractors
o Knowledge of pesticide application safety procedures
o Knowledge of operating procedures of tractors and other farming equipment as assigned. Knowledge of routine tractor maintenance procedures.
Essential Functions
o Prepare soil in fields by discing, grading, shifting dirt.
o Harvest crop using tractor implements.
o Drives and operates tractor and implements to plant, fertilize and spray crops.
o Refuels and maintains tractor as required, maintains machine operations to ensure optimum performance
Physical Demands
o Mount and dismount equipment.
o Lift and attach tractor implements weighing up to 100 pounds, such as rollers or discs.
o Sit for long periods of time while twisting back to see to the rear of the tractor
o Operate the tractor by releasing brake, shift gears, depress pedals, and manipulate steering controls, read gauges.
o See or hear obstacles, such as ditches, row markers, trees, traffic.
Summary Responsible for using a forklift to move pallets or cartons onto trucks for shipments or into inventory.
Qualifications
o Experience in safe forklift operation
oBasic math skills
oBilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Operates the forklift to transport cartons, material or pallets as directed.
o Make minor adjustments and/or repairs to equipment.
o Refuels forklift as needed
Physical Demands
o Climb up onto and down from equipment
o Be able to read gauges, shift gears, depress pedals
and operate heavy equipment safely.
Summary Operates large and small field equipment to prepare field for crops.
Qualifications
o Minimum 100 hours of experience in operating farm equipment and machinery.
oValid current driver's license.
Essential Functions
o Prepare soil for planting using farm equipment.
o Able to distinguish between crop and weeds.
o Know the purpose of each equipment implement and its appropriate application.
o Able to diagnose when equipment is running improperly and get it serviced.
o Make adjustments or minor repairs to equipment as needed.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o None
Qualifications
o Previous experience operating tractors, forklifts, gang plows, and cotton pickers.
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 100 pounds.
o Climb up onto and down from equipment.
o Sit for extended periods of time.
o Must be able to read gauges, shift gears, depress pedals
and turn knobs and levers.
Summary: Responsible for the safe and correct operation of large tractor/trailer trucks with a gross vehicle weight up to 80,000 pounds.
Qualifications
o Valid commercial drivers license, clean DMV record
o Basic math skills
o Able to identify orders to be unloaded
o Able to read, write and speak Spanish and English
o Able to read road maps
o Able to safely operate and maintain trucks according to D.O.T. standards
Essential Functions
o Safe and correct operation of trucks
o Safely and correctly load/unload trailer and tie down load.
o Correctly distribute trailer load to comply with state and federal regulations.
o Accurately maintain log book, when required.
o Pick up empty flats and returnable product at delivery location
o Operate forklift safely and correctly to load/unload product as required.
o Follow delivery instructions, complete drivers log and other necessary forms
o Perform duties in accordance with established safety standards and proper vehicle operation techniques.
Physical Demands
o Able to lift up to 100 pounds.
Summary Repairs and maintains the operation of large and small engines.
Qualifications
o Knowledge of farm machinery, hydraulic systems, arc and gas welding systems and their operation.
o High School diploma/GED or equivalent work related experience.
o Have tools
o Valid driver's license and clean DMV record
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Overhaul gas and diesel engines.
o Adjust and calibrate field equipment
o Maintain equipment and repair equipment.
o Maintain safe and clean work area.
o Order replacement parts as required.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Oversees the correct and safe work of the Mechanic's Helper
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 100 pounds.
o Manipulate small hand tools, such as screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets.
o Stand for extended periods of time.
o Be able to mount and dismount equipment
Summary Repair and maintain the operation of large and small engines and is under the supervision of the Shop Mechanic I.
Qualifications
o Knowledge of farm machinery, hydraulic systems, arc and gas welding systems and their operation.
o High School diploma/GED or equivalent work related experience.
o Own tools
o Valid commercial driver's license and clean DMV record
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Overhauls gas or diesel engines.
o Adjusts and calibrates field equipment
o Maintains equipment by tuning up and replacing worn parts.
o Maintains safe and clean work area
o Other responsibilities as directed by the Shop Mechanic I
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 100 pounds.
o Manipulate small hand tools, such as screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets.
o Stand for extended periods of time.
o Ability to mount and dismount equipment.
Summary Under supervision, assists with the maintenance and repair of equipment.
Qualifications
o Valid driver's license and clean DMV record
o Basic math skills and basic knowledge of equipment maintenance and repair
Essential Functions
o Performs routine equipment servicing
o Job preparation for Shop Mechanic I and II
o Cleans equipment as necessary
o Maintains clean and safe work area
Physical Demands
o Able to lift up to 100 pounds
o Manipulate small hand tools
o Able to mount and dismount equipment
Summary Repair and maintain the operation of large and small engines.
Qualifications
o Knowledge of farm machinery, hydraulic systems, arc and gas welding systems and their operation.
o High School diploma/GED or equivalent work related experience.
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
o Valid driver's license and clean DMV record
Essential Functions
o Overhauls gas or diesel engines.
o Adjusts and calibrates field equipment
o Maintains equipment by tuning up and replacing worn parts.
o Maintains safe and clean work area
Supervisory Responsibilities
o May train new employees
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 75 pounds.
o Manipulate small hand tools, such as screwdrivers, wrenches, sockets.
o Stand for extended periods of time.
Summary Responsible for the operation and maintenance of all irrigation equipment
Qualifications
o Experience in the setup and maintenance of all irrigation equipment
o Bilingual in English and Spanish.
o Good oral and written communication skills
o Familiar with Worker Protection Standard
Essential Functions
o Supervises the complete irrigation operation
o Maintains activity reports
o Performs minor repairs to equipment when needed
o Develop and maintain time records of irrigation employees
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Provide employee instruction and perform employee job evaluations
o Discipline employees and make recommendations for termination
o Responsible for employee time cards and injury/accident reports.
o Conflict resolution skills
Physical Demands
o Able to lift 75 pounds.
o Able to move irrigation pipe as needed.
o Able to connect pipe sections/attachments.
Summary Sets up irrigation equipment and performs irrigation duties
Qualifications
o Knowledge of irrigation systems.
Essential Functions
o Diagnose soil condition for dryness/wetness.
o Watch irrigation flow and set timers for correct times.
o Determine from plant appearance if amount of water is adequate.
o Install and service irrigation systems.
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 75 pounds.
o Be able to move pipe/attachments as required.
o Maintain balance on uneven terrain
Summary Responsible for irrigating fields by using portable pipe sections.
Qualifications
o Previous experience in pipe irrigation techniques required
Essential Functions
o Irrigates fields using portable pipe sections connected to an underground waterline.
o Secures water flow regulator to pipe.
o Connects lengths of valve pipe to gate and attaches additional pipe across ends of rows
o Starts motor to pump water through pipes.
o Observes rate of flow and adjusts as needed.
o Makes minor repairs or adjustments using small hand held tools.
Physical Demands
o Able to move/carry pipe sections as directed
o Able to manipulate small hand tools, such as screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.
o Lift up to 75 pounds.
o Maintain balance on uneven terrain
Summary Responsible for the set up and operation of sprinkler system
Qualifications
o Previous experience with irrigation sprinklers
Essential Functions
o Lays out pipe in designated areas in orchard or field.
o Connects pipe by tightening collar couplings.
o Attaches sprinkler heads to pipes.
o Starts motor that propels sprinkler system across field, adjusts controls for optimum irrigation.
o Starts pump to force water into pipeline system.
o Adjusts and makes minor repairs as needed.
o Disconnects and relocates sprinkler system
Physical Demands
o Be able to move irrigation pipe.
o Be able to manipulate small hand tools such as screw drivers, wrenches, hammers, etc.
o May lift up to 75 pounds.
Summary Responsible for using laser plane to level fields for planting crops.
Qualifications
o Possess a valid Class A driver's license
o Previous experience driving large farm equipment with at least 100 hours of experience in equipment operation
Essential Functions
o Land-leveling using laser plane equipment
o Determine which areas of ground are not levelled adequately.
o Perform minor adjustments/repairs as needed
o Operates equipment correctly to avoid down time
Physical Demands
oClimb up onto and down from equipment
o Sit for long periods of time
o Visually inspect travel path and work area
o Manipulate levers and read gauges, control steering wheel
Summary
Qualifications
o Knowledge in ground preparation, bedding preparation, precision planting and close cultivation, and fertilization techniques
o Able to give instruction and show employees proper methods
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Schedules equipment and manpower needs to meet planting dates
o Schedule cultivation, chemical, and watering needs as required by plant growth
o Maintain adequate crop records
o Prepare harvest schedule. Store and ship specified crops.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Train employees in proper equipment use
o Hire, fire, discipline, promote employees as required
Title Vegetable Mix Field Worker
Summary Plants, raises and harvests vegetables using farm equipment.
Qualifications
o Previous experience in the planting, cultivation and harvest of vegetable crops
Essential Functions
o Drives and operates farm machinery. Able to maneuver equipment safely.
o Attaches farm implements, such as plows, planters, fertilizers and harvesters to tractors.
o Trims, weeds and hoes row crops using hand implements.
Physical Demands
o Stands, stoops, kneels frequently to plant crop
o Lifts up to 50 pounds.
o Manipulate small hand tools, such as trowel, rake, hoe.
Summary Plants, cultivates and harvests fruit and nut crops
Qualifications
o Previous experience in the planting, cultivation and harvest of tree fruit
Essential Functions
o Drives and operates farm machinery.
o Attaches farm implements, such as plows, planters, fertilizers and harvesters to tractors.
o Prunes and removes excess growth to ensure crop quality using pruners and clippers.
o Harvests fruit
o May select, cut and graft scions to rootstock, using grafting tools.
o May spray crops to prevent diseases and control insects or to prevent early fruit drop. Determine problem area and provide solution, the ability to mix and operate spray equipment using proper safety precautions.
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 50 pounds.
o Manipulate small hand tools frequently.
o Climb up and down ladders, load baskets or crates and drive trucks
Title Field Crop Harvest Worker
Summary Responsible for harvesting field crops such as cotton, peanuts and tobacco.
Essential Functions
o Cuts leaves, stalks or vines selected according to size, color or shape.
o Collects the cut crop into bins or containers or ties crops using twine, clamps or rubber bands. Lifts these containers and moves them to the farm vehicle for loading.
o Loads containers onto vehicle.
Physical Demands
o Walks, stoops or kneels between plant rows to reach the crop being harvested.
o Lift up to 50 pounds.
Summary Responsible for the assisting with the propagation of plants
Qualifications
o Previous experience in plant propagation
o Ability to prepare cuttings and plant
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
o The dexterity to plant and fix efficiently and maintain company quality standards
Essential Functions
o Mixes growing medium, prepares and labels containers.
o Performs propagation using techniques such as rooting from cutting, seed, burying tubers or branches, etc.
o Inspects new growth and makes adjustments to environment such as humidity level, light exposure, temperature.
o Logs and records activities and propagation reports.
o Waters planting daily
o Maintains work area in a neat, orderly fashion
Supervisory Responsibilities
o May train new employees
Physical Demands
o Lifts weight up to 25 pounds.
o Able to manipulate small hand tools
Title Horticultural/Garden Worker
Summary Plants, cultivates and harvests specialty plants such as green foliage house plants and flowers, shrubs and trees used for landscaping.
Qualifications
o Previous experience/education in horticulture
o Pesticide applicator training
o Recognize plants by their botanical and common names
Essential Functions
o Sows seed and plant cuttings for reproduction
o Examines physical aspect of plants (leaves, flowers, color) to determine if the growing environment is suited to plant. Makes necessary adjustments to temperature, humidity level and light exposure.
o Determines fertilizer needs and fertilizing schedule for optimum growing condition.
o Applies pesticides or herbicides as necessary.
o Grafts, pollinates, transplants and pinches plants and flowers to produce high quality, marketable plants.
o Mixes soils and maintains specified acidity level of soil for specific plant requirements.
o Logs and records activities.
o Monitors growing environment by adjusting and maintain sprinkler operation, quantity of water given to plants, weeding and transplanting when necessary.
o Maintains and repairs hand tools, equipment and structures, such as raised flower beds, hot beds and greenhouses.
Physical Demands
o May lift up to 25 pounds.
o Manipulates small hand tools.
Summary Supervises and coordinates the activities of subordinate workers engaged in milking, breeding and caring for cows.
Qualifications
o Experience in the care, milking, feeding, breeding and of cattle
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
o Valid driver's license and clean DMV record
Essential Functions
o Directs daily work of subordinate employees on areas of feeding and milking cows.
o Directs the cleaning, care and maintenance of equipment, stables and milking parlor.
o Studies feed and milk production to maintain maximum volume.
o Notifies workers of diet changes.
o Schedules breeding, vaccinations of cows.
o Examines cows for illness, injury and calving. Treats illnesses and injuries and assists in calving.
o Oversee daily operation, initiate changes as needed.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Train employees on dairy farm procedures
o Enforce safety policy
Physical Demands
o Lift weight up to 100 pounds.
Summary Responsible for the care of horses to protect their health and improve their appearance.
Qualifications
o Previous experience with the maintenance, feeding and breeding of horses
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Waters horses and measures, mixes and measures feed and feed supplements
o Washes, brushes and trims horse coat
o Inspects horses for disease, illness and injury and notifies
o Exercises horses.
o Cleans stalls, replaces bedding.
o Unloads and stores feed and supplies.
o Cleans saddles and bridles
o May shoe horses
Physical Demands
o Able to climb up onto and down from horse.
o Will lift up to 75 pounds.
Summary Assists with milk production on a dairy farm.
Qualifications
o Previous experience around dairy cattle
Essential Functions
o Washes and sprays cows with water, insecticides.
o Cleans floors, walls, and equipment.
o Reports cow injuries, illnesses, estrus to supervisor.
o Assists supervisor with cow medical treatment
o Weighs, loads and distributes feed.
o Herds cows from pasture to milk parlor.
o Milks cows using milking equipment.
o May repair and maintain milking equipment.
o Implements feeding program
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 75 pounds.
Summary Supervises and coordinates the activities of raising chickens.
Qualifications
o Minimum two years previous experience with poultry farming
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Direct the maintenance and repair of equipment.
o Oversee the collection of eggs, feeding requirements, and vaccination of poultry.
o Follow instruction from farm manager on production requirements.
o Prepare reports on poultry production and feed consumption.
o Supervise the cleaning and rebedding of nesting boxes.
o Direct in the treatment of ill or injured poultry.
o Enforce safety policy
o Record time sheets
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Train new employees
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 50 pounds.
Summary Assists in poultry farm activities
Essential Functions
o Clean floors and spread clean sawdust over floor.
o Pour feed into feeders, fill water containers.
o Uses hand tools to repair crates, coops, fences, etc.
o Stack and move crated eggs and poultry.
o Drive truck to deliver eggs/chickens as directed.
o Catch and examine poultry for evidence of disease or injury.
Physical Demands
o Lift up to 75 pounds.
Summary Responsible for assisting in the propagation and growth of plants inside a greenhouse.
Essential Functions
o Propagates, plants and transplants flowers, trees and foliage.
o Prunes, thins, and trains plants.
o Weeds, control pests and inspects for diseases.
o Operates small gas powered equipment.
o Operates small hand tools.
o Mixes growing media.
o Cleans and maintains greenhouse facility.
o Maintains plant nutrition
Physical Demands
o Lifts up to 50 pounds.
Summary Assists in the planting, propagation, cultivation and maintenance of nursery stock
Qualifications
o Ability to recognize proper plant care and maintenance needs
o Ability to operate nursery vehicles and equipment safely
Essential Functions
o Plants seeds, thins and transplants seedlings.
o Fertilizes soil and maintains plant nutrition.
o Weeds, controls pests and inspects for disease.
o Maintains water requirements.
o Cares for indoor and outdoor container plants.
o Cleaning work area
o Removing and apply shade covers to plants
o Irrigating plant material
Physical Demands
o Lifts up to 25 pounds.
Summary Picks strawberries from plants, crating them for transport and loading crates onto truck.
Essential Functions
o Determines which berries are to be picked from plants.
o Picks selected berries and places into containers.
o Moves full containers to location for loading onto truck.
o Thins fruit and removes spoiled produce and/or other debris.
Physical Demands
o Kneeling, squatting or sitting.
o May lift up to 15 pounds.
Title Wine Grape Harvester (Hand)
Summary Selects and picks grapes to produce wines.
Essential Functions
o Determines which grapes are suitable for harvest.
o Cuts bunch of grapes from vine with knife.
o Moves picking tray between vines until full.
o Dump full picking tray into gondola.
Physical Demands
o Lifts up to 50 pounds.
Summary Applies fertilizer and pesticides to planted crops to stimulate growth and control diseases and pests.
Qualifications
o Valid license or training in chemical application
o Previous experience with chemical applications
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
o Understanding of the Worker Protection Standard and OSHA regulations regarding chemical applications and equipment
o Basic math skills
Essential Functions
o Sprays herbicides and pesticides on trees, shrubs and lawns using hoses and truck mounted tanks.
o Determines severity of infestation, wind direction and terrain to efficiently apply solution.
o May destroy diseased plants or trees by burning them.
o Uses proper Personal Protective Equipment. Cleans and maintains equipment after use.
Physical Demands
o Lift weights up to 25 pounds.
Summary Oversees the operation of selection, packaging and labelling and transport of plants to other locations.
Qualifications
o Valid driver's license and clean DMV record
o Previous experience in plant loading, scheduling, pickup and delivery procedures.
o Bilingual in Spanish and English.
Essential Functions
o Supervise the selection, preparation and shipment of plants to stores.
o Supervises the maintenance of delivery equipment.
o Schedules and documents the delivery and pickup of plants and materials.
o Develops work schedules of shipping department.
o Enforces safety policies.
Supervisory Responsibilities
o Trains employees in proper work procedures.
o Evaluates employees' job performance annually
Physical Demands
o May lift up to 50 pounds.
Title Tomato Harvester Operator
Summary Operates the tomato harvester with field employees to harvest tomato crop.
Qualifications
o Previous experience as a tractor driver or large equipment operator
o Valid driver's license and clean DMV record
o Bilingual in English and Spanish
Essential Functions
o Inspect equipment before operation
o Service equipment as required
o Be able to determine when to increase/decrease rpm while in motion to
assist workers in sorting.
o Supervise and assist in cleaning machine.
Summary Operates shaker machine to remove ripe fruit from trees in orchard.
Qualifications
o At least one season's experience as a shaker operator
o Mechanical skills sufficient to overhaul and repair tree shaker and its components
o Skills in arc and gas welding, gasoline motor repair and hydraulic systems repair.
Essential Functions
o Drive shaker to and among trees. Operates shaker properly to minimize damage to trees and fruit loss on ground.
o Performs daily inspections and preventative maintenance of shaker. Examines machine for evidence of needed repair. Fills shaker fuel tanks and hydraulic fluid tanks. Compiles list of parts and repairs needed and gives list to supervisor.
o Monitors shaker during operation to anticipate needed adjustments or repairs
o In event of breakdown, immediately identifies problem and begins to repair machine with tools and welding equipment supplied in orchard.
Title
Summary
Qualifications
o
Essential Functions
o
o
o
o
Supervisory Responsibilities
o
Physical Demands
o
o
o
The items in the appendix include:
Instructions for Job Analysis Sheet
Appendix A - Instructions for Job Analysis Sheet
In the agricultural industry, it is not uncommon to have employment positions that are unique to an individual operation. In order to create an effective job description for these positions, it's important to examine the position thoroughly. The following chart will help identify the physical requirements, environmental condition, and specific skill level required for each position.
Begin with the first line on the chart and determine how much time during a regular work shift the employee performs this function. "Some" means that the amount of time spent performing this function is occasional, but not more than half of a work shift for more than one or two days each work week. "Often" means more than half a work shift is spent performing this function, but not more than three days in a work week. "Always" means that the function is performed daily for the majority of the shift. Place a check mark in the most appropriate box. Continue in this manner down the page. Functions that do not apply to the job may be skipped over or the initials "N/A" written in the blank.
The second page has a chart on which you indicate the education level, language skills, mathematics skills etc. that are required for the position. A legend is provided to help you decide which level best applies to your operation.
Once the charts have been completed, write the additional functions, requirements or changes on the sample job description. The job description is now complete. The job description may be retyped for a more polished appearance, or left "as is."
Have the employee currently in that position sign and date the form. Give a copy to the employee and file the original. Signing the form is important as it indicates that the job description is agreed to by both parties and demonstrates effective communication between employee and employer.
Appendix B - Job Definition Sheet
PLACE A CHECK MARK IN THE APPROPRIATE BOX THAT APPLIES TO THIS JOB. (See Appendix A for Instructions)
Time Performing Physical Activity |
||||
Physical Activity |
Never |
Some |
Often |
Always |
| Stand | ||||
| Walk | ||||
| Sit | ||||
| Use Hands | ||||
| Reach | ||||
| Climb | ||||
| Stoop, Kneel | ||||
| Crouch or Crawl | ||||
| Talk | ||||
| Hear | ||||
| Taste/Smell | ||||
| Vision: | ||||
| Close | ||||
| Distant | ||||
| Color | ||||
| Peripheral | ||||
| Depth | ||||
| Lift or Force: | ||||
| Up to 10 Pounds | ||||
| 11 to 25 Pounds | ||||
| 26 to 50 Pounds | ||||
| 51 to 100 Pounds | ||||
| Over 100 Pounds | ||||
| Work Environment: | ||||
| Wet or Humid | ||||
Near Moving Equipment |
||||
| Heights | ||||
| Fumes | ||||
| Toxic Chemicals | ||||
| Cold | ||||
| Hot | ||||
| Electrical Current | ||||
| Vibrations | ||||
N/L/A/H |
N/L/A/H |
||
| Education Level Required | Language Skills Required | ||
| Foreign Language Skill | Mathematics Skill Required | ||
| Reasoning/Critical Thinking | Other |
None No education, skill or training. Limited ability to read, write or speak simple sentences. Little math skill, but is able to add or subtract simple two digit whole numbers. Able to carry out verbal instructions.
Low Some education (high school diploma/GED) or less than one year related work experience. Able to read, write and speak effectively in informal environment. Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide. Understands decimals, fractions, ratios, commissions, discounts & interest. Able to carry out written, verbal and sketch instructions with limited variables.
Average Associates degree or equivalent to Bachelor's degree or two year's experience in related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Able to study and evaluate procedures, manuals and answer questions from public. Able to work with statistical and algebraic concepts in practical situations. Able to define and solve problems regardless of variables.
High Masters Degree or equivalent to Ph.D. or 4 - 10 years of experience in related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Able to critically interpret, evaluate and debate most complex technical or legal documents. Can apply and compute advanced mathematical theorems. Able to apply advanced reasoning skills to practical problem situations.
o I have read the above job description.
o The above job description was read to me by .
I agree that the job description accurately describes the duties of the position. I acknowledge that the company may change, revoke or add to this job description at any time by notifying me in writing of the change, revocation or addition. By remaining in the company's employment after have been so notified, I have agreed to the change, revocation or addition.
Signed Date
Employee
Signed Date
Stand The ability to remain on feet in an upright position for specific periods of time.
Walk The ability to move about on foot
Sit The ability to rest on upper thigh and derriere muscles.
Use fingers Able to manipulate the fingers of the hand to perform tasks.
Handle The ability to hold and/or grasp objects with hand and fingers
Reach The ability to extend hands and arms forward or upward from body.
Climb The ability to ascend or descend a vertical object using hands, legs and feet.
Balance The ability to remain upright and maintain the body's steadiness on uneven ground or narrow path.
Stoop To bend the body downward at the waist with hands and arms extended toward feet.
Kneel To bend the legs at the knees, placing knees on the ground and resting upper body on them.
Talk Using the mouth and vocal cords to speak intelligent, comprehensible language.
Hear To comprehend sounds using the ear and it's auditory function.
Taste Ability to differentiate between flavors using the tongue and mouth.
Smell Ability to distinguish between odors using the nose.
Instructions for Job Analysis Sheet
Orchard Irrigator/Sprinkler 1 2
Seasonal Agricultural Worker I
Seasonal Agricultural Worker II