Farm Worker (General)

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Work Tasks

FARM WORKERS (GENERAL) work on farms and help with year-round farm operations, and maintenance. Duties and working conditions vary widely depending upon the type of farm and the season. They may work in greenhouses or produce crops and raise livestock for market. Farm workers feed and water animals and watch them for any signs of illness. They clean barns, stables, and pens and plow, fertilize, cultivate, and spray crops. Farm workers take part in harvesting operations using tractors and harvesters. They clean, repair, and keep farm tools and machinery in good working order. They also maintain and repair farm buildings, fences, and equipment. Farm workers may take livestock and products to market.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $25,500 average per year ($12.25 per hour)
• A large occupation (345,700 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.7% per year)

Entry Requirements

Many FARM WORKERS (GENERAL) learn their skills through short-term on-the-job training. Most do not have a high school diploma. Experience is helpful for those who operate farm machinery. Farm workers need no license or certificate.