Equipment Manager - Agricultural Systems & Mechanical Operations

We are building a highly capable agricultural operation designed for long-term resilience and independent operation. This includes a wide range of mechanical systems: PTO-driven equipment, grain cleaning and processing lines, irrigation systems, and custom-built machinery. We are looking for an Equipment Manager who can take ownership of all mechanical systems—from setup and modification to long-term maintenance and optimization. This is not a typical farm job. You will be expected to build, adapt, and keep systems running under demanding conditions. Key Responsibilities 1. Equipment Setup & Commissioning Assemble and bring online equipment such as: PTO-driven grain cleaners and threshers Hammer mills, mixers, and feed systems Irrigation pumps and high-volume water systems Convert electric-driven machines to PTO (e.g., gearbox + jackshaft builds) Ensure proper alignment, speed matching, and safe operation 2. Mechanical Fabrication & Modification Design and build: PTO drive systems (gearboxes, slip clutches, jackshafts) Mounting frames and skid systems Custom adaptations for multi-crop processing Work with belts, pulleys, shafts, bearings, and structural steel 3. Maintenance & Reliability Develop preventative maintenance systems for: Bearings, bushings, belts, hydraulics, gearboxes Maintain spare parts inventory for long-term operation Troubleshoot failures quickly and effectively 4. Equipment Oversight Manage and maintain equipment such as: John Deere 4020 and similar tractors PTO generators and implements Sickle bar mowers, combines, and harvest equipment Ensure all machines are field-ready at all times 5. System Integration Build and maintain complete processing lines: Harvest cleaning drying milling storage Optimize throughput, efficiency, and durability Required Skills & Experience Strong mechanical background (ag equipment, diesel, or industrial machinery) Hands-on experience with: PTO systems and driveline components Gearboxes, pulleys, and belt drives Bearings, shafts, and alignment Fabrication skills: Welding (MIG/TIG/Stick) Basic machining or metalworking Ability to diagnose and repair equipment without relying on outside support Highly Valued (Not Required) Experience in: Off-grid or remote operations Irrigation systems and high-volume pumping Grain handling, cleaning, or milling systems Background in: Ranching, farming, or industrial maintenance Ability to design systems from scratch (not just follow manuals) - What We're Looking For Someone who takes ownership and solves problems without being told Comfortable working with both modern and improvised systems Thinks in terms of durability, redundancy, and long-term operation Willing to build things right the first time Why This Role is Different You won't just maintain equipment—you'll design and build systems Significant autonomy and responsibility Opportunity to create a high-performance, self-reliant agricultural operation Description of the most complex mechanical system you've built or managed Any photos or examples of past work (if available)