Smart Farm Technician 1

**About Olds College of Agriculture and Technology Smart Farm**

At Olds College of Agriculture and Technology the Smart Farm (OCSF) integrates opportunities for student learning, applied research and industry partners into a commercial scale sheep, beef cow/calf, beef feedlot, cash-crop and grazing operation. OCSF works directly with Olds College Centre of Innovation (OCCI) to conduct applied research projects, validate technologies and practices to improve productivity and sustainability of food production with a focus on utilizing data for better management decisions. OCSF also directly supports the teaching and learning programs of students across all three (3) academic schools including Continuing Education.

**The opportunity**:
**Key Job Functions and Responsibilities**:

- Support plus execute tasks within day-to-day operations including;
- Seeding, spraying and harvesting of cash crops,
- Care, treatment and feeding of livestock,
- Setting-up and assisting with labs for students and assisting with applied research,
- Preform general facility and equipment maintenance.
- The Technician will ensure the protocols, data collection, data analysis, reporting, and overall operational execution is aligned with leading industry practices, project charters and Smart Farm Operational requirements.
- Demonstrate a strong approach and support with customer service. This will require thinking creatively on methods or approaches to coordinate operational activities with other stakeholders.
- Ability to balance and prioritize in fast paced workplace working on multiple initiatives or tasks simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Provide support to the Smart Farm Management team, external contractors, and the larger Smart Ag ecosystem in all business operations.
- Support, but at times lead, the planning, management, implementation, optimization and operation of field level and livestock-based technologies or projects.
- Identify opportunities for improvement or future applied research.
- Perform other duties as assigned.

**Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required**:

- Diploma or equivalent in Ag Production, Ag Management or other Ag industry credential.
- Experience with equipment operation and maintenance is required.
- Ability to express concepts effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to work collaboratively and informally lead in team situations.
- Possess a high digital ag literacy through experience with ag technology and software programs.
- Able to identify goals and objectives and is self-motivated with critical thinking skills.
- Demonstrates advanced innovation skills, is independent yet highly collaborative with others
- Able to stand and bend for long periods of time and lift 50+ lbs.
- Physically able to work outdoors and under harsh weather conditions.
- A valid driver’s license is essential, preference for Class 3 with Air Endorsement. Includes ability to operate truck + trailer combinations and backing.
- Ability to complete all necessary WHMIS or other safety training requirements.

**Conditions of Employment**:

- Current Criminal Reference check that is free of any offenses.
- Must respect and actively promote health and safety policies.
- Available to work seasonally at times outside of regular office hours and weekends.

**Olds College offers a competitive benefit plan**:

- Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)
- Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits
- Health/Personal Spending Account
- Generous Vacation Leave
- Paid Holiday Closure
- ‘Olds College in the Community’ volunteer leave
- Professional development and opportunities for growth

We thank all individuals for their interest in Olds College, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.