Farm Labourer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of agriculture, the emphasis on farm labourers has never been more significant.

As the farming industry evolves, so does the need for skilled individuals who can cultivate, maintain, and protect our agricultural landscapes.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a farm labourer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of farm labour,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable farm labourer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or agricultural career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Farm Labourer Duties and Responsibilities

Farm Labourers are responsible for a variety of tasks related to agriculture and farming.

They are primarily involved in the manual labour aspect of farming, including the cultivation and harvesting of plants, and the raising and tending of livestock.

Farm Labourers are primarily responsible for directly aiding in farm operations, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Plant, cultivate, and harvest crops
• Operate farm machinery and equipment
• Irrigate farm soil and maintain ditches or pipes and pumps
• Apply pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers to crops
• Feed livestock and clean and disinfect their pens, cages, yards, and hutches
• Examine animals to detect symptoms of illnesses or injuries and administer vaccines to protect animals from diseases
• Assist in the delivery of newborn livestock
• Move equipment, poultry, or livestock from one location to another, manually or using trucks or carts
• Repair and maintain farm vehicles, implements, and mechanical equipment.
• Prepare products for sale, such as by sorting, packing and loading harvested products

 

Farm Labourer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a physically fit, reliable, and hardworking Farm Labourer to assist in the daily operations of our farm.

The Farm Labourer’s responsibilities include performing manual labor tasks, operating farming machinery, and maintaining farm structures.

The ideal candidate should demonstrate a passion for outdoor work, a willingness to work in adverse weather conditions, and be able to perform strenuous physical tasks.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with planting and harvesting operations
• Operate farm machinery and equipment
• Feed and care for livestock
• Maintain and repair farm buildings, machinery, and equipment
• Carry out daily tasks such as watering, pruning, weeding, and collecting produce
• Adhere to health and safety regulations
• Maintain a clean and tidy work environment

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience working on a farm is preferred
• Physical stamina to perform labor-intensive tasks
• Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment
• Basic knowledge of agricultural practices
• Ability to work in all weather conditions
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Workers’ compensation coverage
• Opportunities for advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Farm Labourer
• Work Environment: This is a physically demanding role that requires working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Farm Manager or Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $22,500 minimum to $30,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Farm Labourer Do?

Farm Labourers are typically employed by farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers to perform various physical tasks related to the planting, growing, and harvesting of crops, as well as the rearing and care of livestock.

Their duties include planting seeds or young plants, irrigating fields, and applying fertilizers or pesticides.

They are also responsible for harvesting crops manually or with machinery, under the supervision of the farmer.

Farm Labourers also assist in the care and management of livestock.

They may be required to feed animals, clean enclosures, monitor their health and, in some cases, assist in the birthing process of livestock.

Additionally, Farm Labourers help with the maintenance of farming equipment and infrastructure, performing minor repairs and ensuring the cleanliness and functionality of tools and machinery.

These workers are often involved in the packaging and loading of harvested products for transportation and sale.

They operate machinery and manual tools, work in all kinds of weather conditions, and often engage in physically demanding tasks that require strength and stamina.

Farm Labourers also need to observe and adhere to safety standards and procedures to avoid accidents and protect the health of the crops and animals.

They may need to adapt their tasks and routines depending on the season, weather conditions, and the specific needs of different crops or livestock.

 

Farm Labourer Qualifications and Skills

Farm Labourers require a combination of physical abilities, technical skills and knowledge about farming practices, including:

• Physical strength and stamina to perform tasks such as lifting heavy equipment, operating machinery, and working in various weather conditions.
• Knowledge of farming techniques and equipment, and the ability to safely operate and maintain such equipment.
• Understanding of different crops and livestock, and their specific care requirements, from planting and feeding to health management and harvesting.
• Ability to carry out precise tasks that require a keen attention to detail, such as planting seeds at the correct depth, administering the right amount of feed to animals, and inspecting crops or livestock for signs of disease.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address challenges that may arise in crop production or animal care.
• Teamwork and communication skills to work effectively with other farm workers and coordinate tasks efficiently.
• Time management skills to ensure that tasks are completed in a timely manner, in line with the farm’s schedule and seasonal demands.
• Flexibility and adaptability to handle the unpredictable nature of farming, such as changes in weather conditions, variations in crop yield, or fluctuations in market prices.

 

Farm Labourer Experience Requirements

Farm Labourers often learn their skills on the job, with little formal education or prior experience required for entry-level positions.

This hands-on training includes understanding farming equipment, animal care, crop cultivation, and harvest techniques.

For those seeking to work on a farm, prior experience in roles such as Landscaper, Groundskeeper, or Animal Caretaker can be helpful.

These roles provide relevant experience in outdoor labour, plant and animal care, and the use of various types of machinery.

Applicants with 1 to 2 years of experience in agriculture, horticulture, or a related field may be preferred for more specialized farm labourer roles, such as those involving organic farming, permaculture, or sustainable farming practices.

Those with more than 3 years of experience can be considered for senior farm labourer positions, which may involve supervising other workers, managing resources, and making decisions about crop planting and livestock care.

Farm Labourers with more than 5 years of experience may have gained enough expertise to manage a farm or to supervise a team of farm workers.

This level of experience often requires a deep knowledge of farming techniques, crop rotation, animal husbandry, and the ability to operate and repair farming machinery.

 

Farm Labourer Education and Training Requirements

Farm Labourers often have a high school diploma or equivalent education, however, some farm jobs may not require formal education.

They typically gain skills through hands-on training and experience.

This includes learning how to operate, maintain, and repair farm machinery and equipment, understanding safety procedures, recognizing diseases in plants and animals, and understanding the basics of crop and animal care.

There are vocational schools and colleges that offer programs in agriculture, horticulture, or animal science which can be beneficial for farm labourers seeking to gain a deeper understanding or specialize in a specific area.

Some farm labourers might also participate in apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Certifications are not typically required for farm labourers, but some may opt to pursue certifications related to specific agricultural practices or equipment operation for career advancement.

Continuous learning is a key aspect in this field as farming methods, technology and equipment constantly evolve.

 

Farm Labourer Salary Expectations

A Farm Labourer earns an average salary of $25,440 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on the level of experience, size and location of the farm, and the specific type of farm work being performed.

Seasonal fluctuations and the demand for certain crops can also impact the salary.

 

Farm Labourer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Farm Labourer need?

Farm Labourers should possess physical stamina and strength as the job involves heavy lifting and prolonged standing.

They should also have knowledge of farming practices, as well as the ability to operate and maintain farming machinery.

Basic problem-solving skills, attentiveness to detail, and the ability to follow instructions are also important.

 

Do Farm Labourers need any specific qualifications?

While a formal education is not necessarily required, a high school diploma or equivalent may be beneficial.

Some farm labourers may have qualifications in agriculture or a related field, but this is not usually a requirement.

Most of the skills are learned on the job, and some farms provide on-the-job training.

 

What should you look for in a Farm Labourer resume?

In a farm labourer resume, look for previous experience in farming or agricultural work.

Knowledge and experience with farming machinery and tools should also be highlighted.

Physical fitness and the ability to work in various weather conditions are also key qualities to look for.

 

What qualities make a good Farm Labourer?

A good Farm Labourer is hardworking, reliable, and can work well as part of a team.

They should be willing to work long hours, often in challenging weather conditions, and perform repetitive tasks.

They should also have a good understanding of safety procedures and the ability to follow instructions carefully.

 

Is it difficult to hire Farm Labourers?

Hiring Farm Labourers can be challenging due to the physical demands and long hours associated with the job.

However, providing a fair wage, good working conditions, and potential for growth can attract dedicated and hardworking individuals to the role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we delved into the heart of what it truly means to be a farm labourer.

And you know what?

It’s not just about ploughing fields.

It’s about nurturing the very soil that feeds the world, one seed at a time.

With our comprehensive farm labourer job description template and real-world examples, you’re perfectly equipped to make your mark.

But why halt your journey there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every seed sown is a part of a larger harvest.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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