Are you a skilled diesel technician, electrical diagnostic specialist, or recent Ag Tech graduate who excels at solving complex tractor and engine performance issues in real-world field conditions? Do you bring hands-on experience in diesel diagnostics, advanced electrical systems, and aftertreatment troubleshooting, paired with a passion for working directly on cutting-edge agricultural equipment? As Cerebral Staffing , we are seeking a dedicated Field Test Technician to join our team supporting our client, John Deere , in Waterloo, IA . Whether you bring years of hands-on diesel and heavy equipment service experience or hold an Associate degree in Ag Tech, Diesel Power, or Electrical Engineering Technology, we want to hear from you. Field Test Technician - John Deere (Waterloo, IA) This is a long-term 1+ year contract opportunity paying up to $45/hr (commensurate with experience), including 2 weeks of PTO . Operating 100% onsite in Waterloo, IA (with 10-20% domestic travel across the US/Canada), you will provide advanced technical field support to PV&V (Product Verification & Validation) teams, channel partners, and customers—troubleshooting complex engine, electrical, and aftertreatment issues on production and experimental machines.
Position Details & Compensation Pay Rate:
Up to $45/hr (W2) (Open to entry-level Ag Tech/Diesel grads at market-appropriate rates).
Location:
100% Onsite at John Deere Works ( Waterloo, IA ).
Travel Requirements:
10% - 20% travel across the US and Canada to resolve complex field problems or retrofit machines with experimental and production-intent parts.
Core Responsibilities Advanced Technical Support & Diagnostics:
Lead technical troubleshooting for PV&V field teams, channel partners, and customers using advanced diagnostic tools, schematics, and published service documentation.
Problem Resolution & Data Analysis:
Follow established Problem Resolution Processes to analyze multi-source field data, work with cross-functional Engineering and Quality teams, and drive swift technical fixes.
Field Retrofits & Technical Bulletins:
Travel to field sites to resolve complex machine issues, update tractors/engines with experimental or production-intent parts, and author technical solution bulletins for field teams.
Parts & Test Gathering:
Assist engineering teams in gathering and evaluating identified field parts required for production-intent updates.
Associate degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering Technology, Diesel Power Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Technology Management, or equivalent practical hands-on experience ( Entry-level candidates from Ag Tech or Diesel Power programs are encouraged to apply! ).
Electrical & Engine Diagnostics:
Strong hands-on understanding of diesel engine diagnostics, including heavy-duty electrical systems, aftertreatment architectures, and electronic control units.
Emerging Technologies:
Knowledge of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) systems or electrified powertrains is a plus.
Software & Systems:
Proficient with MS Office/Teams and quick to learn proprietary John Deere electronic diagnostic tools and software applications.
Soft Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong problem-solving initiative, and ability to represent John Deere professionally in front of dealers and field customers.
APPLY NOW
to deliver high-level field diagnostic support, test next-generation agricultural equipment, and build an exceptional career path with John Deere!
Job Types:
Full-time, Contract Pay:
Up to $45.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Referral program Vision insurance