Tractor Operator (Onion and Spraying Focus)

• Topfield Farms Pty Ltd – Glenroy / Penola, SA
• Full-time, permanent (minimum 38 hours per week)
• Competitive salary package in line with experience.
• Accommodation options available.
• Long-term, full-time position within a professional and well-supported team.
• Ongoing training and career development opportunities.
• Safe, family-friendly regional location with affordable housing and good community services.

About the Company

Topfield Farms Pty Ltd is a large-scale, family-owned agricultural business located in the Limestone Coast region of South East South Australia. The enterprise is one of the largest potato and onion producers in the area, supplying major food processors and fresh produce markets nationwide. With diversified cropping that includes onions, potatoes, cereals, and hay—as well as livestock operations—the business places strong emphasis on efficiency, sustainability, and workforce development.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Tractor Operator with a focus on onion production and spray operations. This hands-on role supports the farm’s intensive onion cropping program and general field operations across irrigated and dryland systems. The position involves machinery operation, crop protection, and maintenance tasks essential to achieving high-quality yields and operational reliability.

Main Responsibilities

• Operate tractors, sprayers, and associated implements for onion and rotation crops.
• Conduct spraying and fertiliser applications in accordance with agronomic programs and safety standards.
• Calibrate spray and fertiliser equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance with label and environmental requirements.
• Undertake land preparation, seeding, and harvest support operations.
• Maintain machinery in clean and operational condition, performing daily pre-start checks and basic servicing.
• Accurately complete spray and field activity records.
• Follow all farm safety, Freshcare, and environmental management procedures.

Skills and Experience

Essential:
• Demonstrated experience in broadacre or horticultural cropping, preferably onions or vegetables.
• Strong skills in operating and maintaining modern tractors, sprayers, and related machinery.
• AQF3 Chemical Handling Accreditation (or willingness to obtain).
• Mechanical aptitude with an eye for detail and preventative maintenance.
• Reliable, proactive, and able to work both independently and as part of a small team.

Desirable:
• Experience with onion or potato crops.
• GPS / auto-steer system familiarity (e.g., Trimble, John Deere).
• HR or HC truck licence.
• Forklift ticket or irrigation system experience.