Automotive/Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Classification: Part-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Location: Pocantico Hills, NY
Compensation Range: $42.00 – $49.00 per hour (DOE)

About Stone Barns Center

Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture is a nonprofit farm, research, and education center working to catalyze an ecological food culture. For over two decades, Stone Barns Center and its partner restaurant, Blue Hill at Stone Barns, have demonstrated the power of farmer-chef collaboration to inspire change in the food system. Guided by values rooted in stewardship, collaboration, curiosity, and excellence, we work at the intersection of agriculture, culinary innovation, research, and education to help shape a more resilient food future.

Position Overview

The Medium Duty Truck & Farm Equipment Mechanic plays a critical hands-on role in supporting Stone Barns Center’s farming and facilities operations. Serving as the Facilities Manager’s primary technical resource, this position ensures the reliable performance, safety, and longevity of a diverse fleet of farm vehicles and equipment. Through expert diagnostics, repair, and preventive maintenance, the Mechanic helps keep seasonal operations running smoothly while contributing to the Center’s mission of sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

Key Responsibilities:

Maintenance & Repairs

• Diagnose, maintain, and repair a wide range of farm vehicles, agricultural machinery, and facilities-related equipment, including engines (diesel, gas, electric), hydraulics, electrical systems, steering, suspension, brakes, air conditioning, and tires
• Perform preventive maintenance to minimize downtime and ensure operational readiness during critical seasonal periods, including oil and fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections, and evaluation of wear components
• Execute routine inspections and major repairs on tractors, utility vehicles, mowers, loaders, and other specialized farm equipment
• Safely operate shop tools and machinery, including hydraulic lifts, welders, tire machines, and diagnostic equipment
• Maintain high standards of quality, safety, and workmanship across all tasks
• Communicate clearly with the Facilities Manager regarding equipment condition, repair timelines, and additional service needs
• Modify, design, and fabricate special-purpose or custom equipment to support farm operations
• Stay current on best practices in automotive and agricultural equipment maintenance through ongoing learning and professional development

Operations

• Assist seasonally with snow removal, debris clearing, and roadway maintenance
• Monitor parts inventory, order supplies, and maintain accurate stock levels
• Report equipment damage, unsafe conditions, or mechanical issues promptly to Facilities leadership

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automotive, heavy equipment, or farm equipment maintenance (two-year degree in automotive technology preferred but not required)
• Strong mechanical aptitude with demonstrated B+ or higher mechanical skill level
• Experience working with diesel-powered equipment, particularly in winter or seasonal operations
• Familiarity with service and parts manuals
• Strong communication skills and a safety-first mindset
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with facilities and farm teams
• Physically able to lift up to 50 pounds and work in varied weather conditions
• Flexibility to work up to 24 hours per week, including occasional weekends or extended hours during peak seasons
• Must provide and maintain appropriate tools

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Experience operating heavy equipment such as tractors, skid steers, dump trucks, and snowplows
• Comfort using diagnostic tools and basic shop software
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of managing multiple priorities
• Commitment to Stone Barns Center’s mission and sustainable agricultural practices

Compensation & Benefits

Stone Barns Center offers competitive hourly compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial wellbeing, and work-life balance. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer-paid life insurance; 401(k); and paid time off.

Why Join Stone Barns Center

Working at Stone Barns Center means being part of a mission-driven organization shaping the future of food and farming. You’ll collaborate across farming, culinary, research, and education teams in an environment that values curiosity, stewardship, and innovation. Our campus serves as a living laboratory for regenerative agriculture and ecological cuisine, offering meaningful, hands-on work that contributes to lasting change in the food system.