What does a Field Worker do?

A Field Worker is a front-line employee for an agricultural business. By performing the duties established in a Field Worker job description proficiently, they help achieve crop output targets to drive financial success. Their responsibilities related to pest and weed control, irrigation and fertilization lower the likelihood of crop failure to limit losses and help agricultural organizations maximize their return on investment in seeds and starter crops.

Field Worker skills and qualifications

To successfully perform their assigned job duties, a Field Worker must have certain skills. You can establish a list of required qualifications in your Field Laborer job description to help prospective candidates determine if they’re a good fit for your open position. Skills you may wish to list include:

• Familiarity with and ability to use common farming implements, such as shovels, sickles and seeders
• Knowledge of how to operate and maintain equipment, such as cotton gins, tractors and threshers
• Basic math skills to perform measurements and mix chemicals
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and address issues with irrigation systems and agricultural equipment
• Observation skills to spot signs of poor growth, pest infestation and crop diseases
• Knowledge of agriculture-related health and safety standards

Field Worker experience requirements

Field Workers can learn how to perform their assigned duties through on-the-job training. As a result, having previous work experience may not be necessary. However, there are situations when you may prefer to prioritize candidates who have worked as Field Laborers before.

To decide how much experience to include in your Harvester job description, consider the makeup of your current team. If you’re building a new team or have many recent hires, focusing on candidates with one or more years of prior experience may be beneficial. On the other hand, prospective Field Workers with no experience may be able to succeed when joining a team that consists of more experienced laborers who can provide training.

Field Worker education and training requirements

There are generally no formal education requirements for a Field Worker. Most Harvesters learn how to carry out their responsibility through on-the-job training, which typically lasts for around one month.

Candidates may need specific training, licensing or certification to perform some duties in a Field Laborer job description. States may require laborers who operate certain types of equipment to hold a valid driver’s license. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration also mandates specific on-the-job training for Harvesters who operate tractors and cotton gins. In addition, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules specify that individuals who work with certain pesticides must obtain state certification. If you need your new hire to begin work immediately, you may wish to mention the necessary licenses or certifications as requirements in your Harvester job description.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the Field Laborer job description outlined above doesn’t fully meet your business needs, consider these related job titles:

• Farm Hand
• Farmer
• Laborer
• Landscape Worker

Field Worker job description FAQs

How can I make my Field Laborer job description stand out?

To attract attention to your Field Laborer job description, begin with a bulleted list of the key advantages of working for your organization. You can include perks such as flexible hours, opportunities for overtime, health insurance and other benefits.

What’s the difference between a Field Worker and an Agricultural Worker?

Duties included in a Field Worker job description typically relate to the planting, tending and harvesting of crops. An Agricultural Worker may have a broader list of responsibilities, including caring for and feeding animals, repairing structures around the farm and sorting and packaging crops for shipment.

What qualities make for a good Field Worker?

People who enjoy spending time outdoors and gardening may find working as a Field Laborer satisfying. Because planting and harvesting is often a team effort, those who like working with other people may make good Field Workers.