Farm Laborer

Your Fit

Income

$36K

Preparation

Minimal

Growth

-2.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Farm Laborer?

A Farm Laborer is a key player in the agricultural sector, responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to the planting, cultivating, and harvesting of crops. They work hands-on in the fields, assisting with the efficient production of food and other agricultural products.

Sample job titles:

Greenhouse Worker, Grower, Harvester, Nursery Worker

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Farm Laborer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Farm Laborer earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Farm Laborer.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$32K per year	$34K per year	$36K per year	$42K per year	$52K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $29K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Farm Laborer do?

Work environment

Farm Laborers typically work in outdoor farm settings, which can include fields, greenhouses, and orchards. The work is physically demanding, often requiring long hours in various weather conditions. It involves manual labor, such as lifting, bending, and using hand tools and machinery.

Quick task list

Plants, irrigates, and harvests crops.
Operates and maintains farm machinery and equipment.
Applies fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides.
Assists with the care and feeding of livestock.
Performs general farm maintenance tasks.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Crop Production: Specializing in the planting, tending, and harvesting of crops.
Livestock Care: Focusing on the care and feeding of farm animals.
Organic Farming: Employing sustainable and organic farming practices.
Horticulture: Specializing in the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
Machinery Operation: Operating and maintaining farm machinery and equipment.

Description

Farm Laborers are the backbone of the agricultural industry, playing a crucial role in food production. The job requires a strong work ethic and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks. Laborers must be adaptable and willing to work in various conditions, as the tasks can change with the seasons and the specific needs of the farm.

The work is highly practical and hands-on, providing an opportunity for those who enjoy working outdoors and being physically active. Knowledge of farming techniques, machinery operation, and livestock care can be advantageous. As technology advances, there is an increasing need for laborers who are also skilled in using new agricultural tools and machinery.

For those passionate about agriculture, working as a Farm Laborer can be a rewarding way to contribute to an essential industry. The role offers opportunities to learn about different aspects of farming and can be a stepping stone to other positions in agriculture, such as farm management or agricultural operations.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing directly to the production of food and agricultural products.
Working in nature and the outdoors.
Physical activity and hands-on work.
Opportunities to learn a wide range of agricultural skills.

You might make a good Farm Laborer if you are...

Physically fit and capable of performing demanding tasks.
Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
Interested in agriculture and willing to learn new farming techniques.
Able to work independently as well as part of a team.
Adaptable and able to handle the seasonal nature of farm work.

Pros:

Opportunity to work outdoors and in nature.
Physical activity can be rewarding and healthful.
Can offer a sense of accomplishment and connection to the land.
Opportunities for learning and skill development in agriculture.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially strenuous.
Exposure to weather extremes and early morning hours.
Often low wages and seasonal employment.
Limited career progression without additional education or specialization.

How to become a Farm Laborer

Typical education

Generally, no formal education is required to become a Farm Laborer, and most skills are learned on the job. However, some laborers may benefit from vocational training or courses in agriculture.

High school preparation

Courses:

Agriculture or Horticulture classes, if available, to gain basic knowledge of farming.
Biology and Environmental Science to understand crop growth and animal care.
Physical Education to maintain and improve physical fitness.
Basic Mechanics or Technical Education for machinery operation skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) or 4-H clubs.
Volunteering at local farms or community gardens.
Engaging in sports or physical activities to build stamina and strength.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training or certifications in specific agricultural skills, such as machinery operation or organic farming.
Working as an apprentice on a farm to gain hands-on experience.
Attending workshops or short courses on sustainable farming practices, livestock care, or crop production.
Seeking employment opportunities that offer on-the-job training in advanced farming techniques.

More resources

National Young Farmers Coalition - Provides resources and networking opportunities for young farmers.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - New Farmers - Offers information and resources for new farmers.
Future Farmers of America (FFA) - A youth organization promoting agricultural education.
4-H - Provides educational programs in agriculture and farming for youth.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.