Ex-military personnel sought for John Deere technical roles

Agricultural equipment manufacturer John Deere is holding a fresh drive to recruit ex-military personnel for its dealership network.

It has identified men and women with military experience as the “ideal candidates” to fulfil technician roles.

A webinar will be taking place on Wednesday 3 December to explain the opportunities available.

First-hand evidence will be provided by those who have already been through the John Deere Military Hiring Programme.

See also: John Deere launches military service leavers career programme

One such person is Chris Giles, who will address the online event.

Chris previously served in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, which he joined as a vehicle mechanic in 2012.

He worked extensively on tank engines and transmissions before moving into several front-line units from 2015.

Chris attended a John Deere open event for military technicians shortly before the Covid pandemic and decided to pursue a career at the company.

He started as a technician at the Tallis Amos Group Leominster depot.

“In terms of the kit, going from tanks to tractors is a completely different world,” said Chris.

“The hydraulics, for example are completely different.

“But there wasn’t much of a transition. The kit needs to be fixed and out the door as soon as possible, much like in the army.”

Chris has since progressed to a technical communicator and certified dealer instructor role, liaising with other technicians in the field and training new staff.

Ideal candidates

According to a John Deere spokesman, members of the armed forces are ideal candidates for technician roles.

“Many have already worked with some of the systems and products John Deere use on their agricultural and turf machinery, making the transition straightforward,” said the spokesman.

Current service members and ex-service members who are interested in the John Deere Military Hiring Programme can find out more and apply online.

The online event, which starts at 7pm on 3 December is free, but pre-registration is required.