Farm Mechanic

The Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) is a unique and innovative English language undergraduate institution dedicated to preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders of Rwanda and East Africa. Students at RICA engage in curricular and co-curricular learning opportunities emphasizing Conservation Agriculture and One Health principles, oral and written communication, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

In an experiential learning environment, students develop the knowledge and experience necessary for a wide range of careers in agriculture. Students at RICA experience the six Enterprises including Dairy, Poultry and Swine, Food Processing, Row and Forage Crops, Vegetable and Fruit Crops, Irrigation and Mechanization.

The curriculum is designed to incorporate threads of Innovation, Conservation, One Health Systems Thinking, and Entrepreneurship. Communication, One Health Systems Thinking, and Entrepreneurship are woven throughout the curriculum.

All RICA graduates will be innovative problem solvers able to operate farms and ranches, start agribusinesses, assume management roles in cooperatives, NGOs, and other agricultural enterprises, serve their communities as extension agents and technical and policy experts, or assume positions of agricultural leadership in Rwanda.

DESCRIPTION 

The primary objective of the Farm Mechanic is to ensure the optimal functionality and maintenance of all farm machinery and equipment to support efficient agricultural operations. The Farm Mechanic reports to the Farm Manager.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical issues with various farm equipment.
• Conduct routine maintenance on tractors, implements, harvesters, and other machinery to prevent breakdowns.
• Collaborate with the farm management team to prioritize and schedule repairs.
• Keep accurate records of equipment maintenance, repairs, and inspections.
• Monitor and manage inventory of spare parts, tools, and supplies.
• Provide technical assistance to farm and other enterprises personnel regarding equipment operation and safety.
• Support with farming and facility operations.
• Ensure proper storage and maintenance of all farm equipment during off-seasons.
• Develop and implement a preventative maintenance schedule for all machinery.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and guidelines while performing repairs and maintenance.
• Conduct regular safety inspections on equipment and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Provide training to farm personnel and enterprises on safe equipment operation.
• Maintain clear and open communication with the farm management team regarding equipment status and repair timelines.
• Collaborate with external vendors and service providers for specialized repairs and maintenance.
• Keep detailed records of all maintenance and repair activities.
• Generate reports on equipment repairs and maintenance costs for management review.
• Be available for on-call repairs during peak seasons.
• Work collaboratively with other RICA staff to ensure seamless operations.

QUALIFICATION

• Possess a recognized qualification in mechanics and mechanical engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience as a farm mechanic with in-depth knowledge of agricultural machinery.
• Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently in a farm environment.
• Possession of farm machinery operator’s license.