Diesel Mechanic – Farm Equipment Operator
This Isn’t a Shop Job. It’s a Career in Agriculture.
If you’re a diesel mechanic who would rather be part of a farm than stuck in a service bay, keep reading.
Oberbroeckling Family Farms is a third-generation, diversified agricultural operation headquartered in Garnavillo, Iowa (about 80 miles northeast of Waterloo). We have been farming this ground since 1959 and we are not slowing down. Our operation spans 5,000+ acres of row crop production, a 20-truck commercial fleet, precision ag drone sales and service, and custom hog finishing. We run hard, we invest in our people, and we are building something that lasts generations.
We are looking for one person to grow with us, someone who can keep our equipment running and eventually wants a seat at the table in the field.
What You’ll Do
No two days look the same here, and that is the point.
- Maintain and repair diesel equipment across the operation including late-model John Deere S Series combines, R Series tractors, newer Kenworth semi tractors equipped with Cummins engines, trailers, and support equipment
- Diagnose mechanical issues using John Deere Service Advisor and Cummins Insite diagnostic platforms. Competency in these tools is a strong plus, but we will invest in training the right person
- Support our precision ag drone sales, service, and custom application business throughout the summer months by maintaining flight equipment, assisting with field operations, and working alongside our Terraplex Great River team as needed
- Operate field equipment during planting, spraying, and harvest as needed
- Work day-to-day alongside Ryan Oberbroeckling (Farm Operations) and Matt Hatcher (Executive Assistant) as part of a close-knit leadership team
- Take on increasing responsibility in field operations as you grow with us
Priority #1: During spring and fall peak seasons, keeping the fleet moving is top priority. You will get plenty of seat time, but there will be instances where your skills in the shop take priority over equipment operations. We need someone who is cool under pressure, can multi-task, and understands that when it is go-time, everything else waits.
The Seasonal Rhythm
Agriculture runs on seasons, and so do we. Spring and fall are full-throttle with long days, high stakes, and the satisfaction of getting it done. Winter is a different pace with scheduled maintenance, shop projects, and time to catch your breath. If you have ever wanted a career that actually gives you a winter, this is it.
This is not a position for someone who needs a perfectly predictable 40-hour week every week of the year, but it is a position for someone who thrives when it matters most.
The Path Forward: If You Want to Farm
This is the part that is different about us.
If you have your own ground to rent or farm, we want to talk. We are open to building a custom farming arrangement that lets you work your operation alongside ours by sharing equipment, expertise, and the scale of what we have built. We are not just offering you a job. We are offering you a way into production agriculture with a team that has been doing it for three generations behind you.
Who We’re Looking For
- Diesel mechanic experience in ag equipment, heavy truck, or both
- Familiarity with John Deere Service Advisor and or Cummins Insite, or the aptitude and drive to get there fast
- Mechanically sharp, self-directed, and takes pride in doing it right
- Grew up around agriculture or has a genuine desire to be part of a farm operation, not just fixing equipment but running it
- Valid driver’s license required, CDL a plus. We will sponsor CDL training for the right candidate
- Someone who wants roots, not just a paycheck
You do not have to have done everything. You have to want to learn everything.
What We Offer
- $25+ per hour based on experience. We pay for what you bring
- Overtime opportunity. Spring and fall seasons deliver meaningful additional income
- Health insurance with employer-contributed coverage
- SIMPLE IRA with employer match
- Paid time off
- Tools. Shop tools are available, or bring your own toolbox. Either way works for us. We want the right person, not a specific setup
- CDL sponsorship. We will send the right candidate through CDL school if needed
- Relocation assistance available for the right fit
- A real path forward including custom farming arrangements for candidates who want to work ground of their own alongside our operation
About Us
Oberbroeckling Family Farms is rooted in agriculture and driving forward. We are a third-generation family operation led by Erik and Ryan Oberbroeckling, with the next generation already taking interest in what we are building. We operate with drive, dedication, integrity, and a long-term view on the land and with our people.
We work hard. We maintain what we own. We invest in technology. And we take care of the people who take care of us.
