Tractor Operator / Farmhand

Position Description – Tractor & Potato Digger Operator (Seasonal Focus)
Company: Topfield Farms Pty Ltd
Location: Coonawarra / Glenroy, South East South Australia
Reports To: Farm Manager / Operations Director
Employment Type: Full-Time (Seasonal Intensive – Potato Harvest)
ANZSCO Alignment: 721111 – Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator
Position Summary
Topfield Farms Pty Ltd is seeking an experienced Tractor & Potato Digger Operator to support intensive potato harvesting operations during peak season.
This role is responsible for operating tractors and potato harvesting equipment (including trailed diggers and associated machinery) to ensure efficient, high-quality crop lifting and delivery to storage and packhouse operations. The position requires strong machinery skills, attention to crop quality, and the ability to work extended hours during harvest windows.
Key Responsibilities
Operate tractors with potato diggers and associated harvesting implements
Conduct potato lifting operations in line with yield, quality, and timing targets
Monitor soil conditions, digger setup, and harvesting performance to minimise crop damage
Perform daily machinery checks, basic servicing, and fault identification
Assist with equipment calibration and adjustments based on paddock conditions
Coordinate with truck operators, harvest crews, and packhouse intake schedules
Maintain clean, accurate field and harvest records
Adhere to all WHS, fatigue management, and operational safety requirements
Skills & Experience
Essential:
Proven experience operating tractors in a commercial farming environment
Experience with potato harvesting equipment (or similar root crop machinery)
Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic maintenance
Understanding of harvesting conditions, soil types, and crop handling
Ability to work long hours during peak harvest periods
Desirable:
Experience with Grimme or similar potato harvesting equipment
GPS / precision agriculture experience
HR licence (or willingness to obtain)
Key Attributes
Reliable and able to work under harvest pressure
Strong attention to detail and crop quality
Team-oriented with clear communication skills
Physically fit and adaptable to variable conditions
Conditions
Competitive hourly rate or salary (aligned to experience)
Significant overtime during harvest period
Accommodation may be available
Full compliance with Fair Work and WHS standards