The University of Queensland is offering an excellent opportunity for a dedicated and motivated individual to join its Faculty of Science as a Farm Attendant at the Gatton Campus in Australia. This full-time permanent position is designed for individuals who are passionate about agriculture, farm operations, and research support. The role provides hands-on experience in modern farming operations, including precision agriculture, irrigation, and crop production, while contributing to research and academic activities that support the university’s mission of building a better world.
About Company
The University of Queensland is one of Australia’s leading universities, known for its strong commitment to teaching, research, and community engagement. Established over 125 years ago, the Gatton Campus has a rich agricultural history and has evolved into a modern research and education hub. The Crop & Field Research Unit (CFRU) supports innovative agricultural research using advanced technologies such as drones, GPS guidance, and precision farming equipment. The university promotes excellence, diversity, and inclusion while providing a supportive and professional working environment for its staff.
Responsibilities
The Farm Attendant will play a key role in supporting daily farm and research operations at the Gatton Campus. Key responsibilities include:
- Setting up, operating, and maintaining agricultural equipment used in crop and fodder production
- Preparing and applying agricultural chemicals safely and effectively
- Conducting harvest operations, including machinery operation and post-harvest processing
- Managing irrigation activities and ensuring proper scheduling and operation
- Maintaining accurate farm and irrigation records and daily activity logs
- Supporting horticultural, field crop, and research farm operations
- Assisting with precision farming technologies such as drones and GPS-guided equipment
Requirements
Candidates applying for this role should meet the following requirements:
- Certificate in Agriculture, Agronomy, Engineering, or relevant discipline, or Year 12 with relevant experience
- Competency in operating farm equipment such as tractors, forklifts, quad bikes, and front-end loaders
- Valid A, B, and C class motor vehicle licences
- Knowledge of horticulture, fodder, or field crop production
- Ability to perform equipment maintenance and farm operations
- Availability to work weekends as per roster
- Clean-shave requirement for proper respiratory protection use
- Unrestricted work rights in Australia
Skills
The ideal candidate should possess the following skills:
- Strong mechanical and technical skills in farm equipment operation
- Ability to work independently and within a small team
- Good record-keeping and organizational skills
- Attention to detail in farm and research activities
- Time management and problem-solving abilities
- Commitment to quality service and safe work practices
Desired Knowledge
The following knowledge and certifications will be highly advantageous:
- Blue Card certification or ability to obtain one
- Chemcert accreditation in Agriculture and Veterinary Chemicals
- Commercial operator’s license under the ACDC Act
- Experience with irrigation systems and precision farming technologies
- Familiarity with agricultural data collection apps and digital tools
- Understanding of research-based farming operations
Benefits
Working at The University of Queensland offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- Competitive salary with 17% superannuation
- 17.5% annual leave loading
- 26 weeks paid parental leave or 14 weeks primary caregiver leave
- Free parking and intercampus bus services
- On-campus childcare, medical clinic, and post office
- Access to UQ Sports facility worth $4.1 million
- UQ Study for Staff program
- 25% discount on UQ Vets services
- Community garden volunteering opportunities
- Inclusive and supportive work environment
