How much do apprentice farm tractor driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice farm tractor driver in the United States is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Farm Tractor Driver vs Farm Equipment Operator?

Aspect Apprentice Farm Tractor Driver Farm Equipment Operator Certifications May require basic tractor operation certification or training Typically requires valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and specialized equipment certifications Work Environment On farms, fields, and rural settings, often under supervision On farms, construction sites, or large agricultural operations, often independently Job Role Assists experienced drivers, learns tractor operation, performs basic tasks Operates various farm machinery, including tractors, for planting, harvesting, and other tasks While both roles involve working with farm machinery, an Apprentice Farm Tractor Driver is primarily in training, assisting, and learning tractor operation, often under supervision. A Farm Equipment Operator is more experienced, handling a wider range of machinery independently. The apprentice role is ideal for those starting in agriculture, whereas the operator role requires more certification and experience.

Can a 14 year old legally drive a tractor?

In most regions, a 14-year-old cannot legally operate a farm tractor for employment without special permits or exemptions, as farm work often requires workers to be at least 16 years old. However, youth may operate tractors on their family's farm for personal or family purposes under certain conditions, and some states have specific regulations for young farm workers. It is important to check local labor laws and safety regulations related to youth employment in agriculture.

What skills do you need to be a tractor driver?

A tractor driver, such as an apprentice farm tractor driver, needs skills in operating and maintaining tractors, understanding safety procedures, and following instructions accurately. Good hand-eye coordination, physical stamina, and knowledge of farm equipment are also important. Certification or training in agricultural machinery may be required or preferred.

What is the highest paying farm job?

The highest paying farm jobs often include farm managers, agricultural engineers, and specialized crop or livestock managers, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and farm size. Skilled roles that require advanced certifications or technical expertise tend to offer higher compensation in the agricultural industry.

What is a tractor driver called?

A tractor driver is commonly called an agricultural equipment operator or farm equipment operator. They are responsible for operating tractors and other machinery to perform tasks such as planting, harvesting, and field maintenance, often requiring knowledge of safety procedures and sometimes certification. The role is essential in farming and agricultural settings.

$18-$25/hr Apprentice Farm Tractor Driver Jobs

Anderson Farms

Tractor Driver - Seasonal 2026

Erie, CO

$20.25 - $23.75/hr

As a Tractor Driver you will be in charge of loading and unloading people on and off the wagon, giving a safety speech and driving them out to the pumpkin patch. Previous experience operating a ...

Anderson Farms

Tractor Driver - Seasonal 2026

Erie, CO

$20.25 - $23.75/hr

As a Tractor Driver you will be in charge of loading and unloading people on and off the wagon, giving a safety speech and driving them out to the pumpkin patch. Previous experience operating a ...

Anderson Farms

Tractor Driver - Seasonal 2026

Erie, CO · On-site

$23/hr

As a Tractor Driver you will be in charge of loading and unloading people on and off the wagon, giving a safety speech and driving them out to the pumpkin patch. Previous experience operating a ...

Anderson Farms

Tractor Driver - Seasonal 2026

Erie, CO · On-site

$23/hr

As a Tractor Driver you will be in charge of loading and unloading people on and off the wagon, giving a safety speech and driving them out to the pumpkin patch. Previous experience operating a ...

Foster Farms

Tractor Driver AG - Clean Up Crew (Days)

Delhi, CA · On-site

$18/hr

About Foster Farms At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments ... driver's license with a clean DMV printout. * Must be able to operate grader, tractor and special ...

Foster Farms

Tractor Driver AG - Clean Up Crew (Days)

Delhi, CA · On-site

$18/hr

About Foster Farms At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments ... driver's license with a clean DMV printout. * Must be able to operate grader, tractor and special ...

Foster Farms

Tractor Driver AG - Clean Up Crew (Days)

Delhi, CA · On-site

$18/hr

About Foster Farms At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments ... driver's license with a clean DMV printout. * Must be able to operate grader, tractor and special ...

Foster Farms

Tractor Driver AG - Clean Up Crew (Days)

Delhi, CA · On-site

$18/hr

About Foster Farms At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments ... driver's license with a clean DMV printout. * Must be able to operate grader, tractor and special ...

Vala's Pumpkin Patch