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Entry Level Farm Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ag Processing, Inc.

Material Handler

Emmetsburg, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and ... Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • ...

Ag Processing, Inc.

Material Handler

Sergeant Bluff, IA

$17 - $20.75/hr

... entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and ... Farm hand warehouse manufacturing construction maintenance lawn care machine operation grain ...

Ag Processing

Material Handler

David City, NE · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

... entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and ... Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • ...

Ag Processing

Material Handler

Eagle Grove, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

... entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and ... Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • ...

Ag Processing, Inc.

Material Handler

David City, NE

$18 - $21.50/hr

... entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and ... Farm hand warehouse manufacturing construction maintenance lawn care machine operation grain ...

Ag Processing, Inc.

Material Handler

Emmetsburg, IA

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and ... Farm hand warehouse manufacturing construction maintenance lawn care machine operation grain ...

Duncan Family Farms Inc

NY · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

... • Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment. • Ability to follow ... Minimum Qualifications Mechanic I • 1-month of entry-level mechanical, lube technician, tire ...

Lewis Energy Group

Floorhand

Encinal, TX · On-site

Serves in entry-level capacity on drilling crew under immediate supervision of Driller and ... Experience Minimum 2 years recent oilfield, heavy construction, mining, farming, ranching or ...

Lewis Energy Group

Floorhand

Encinal, TX · On-site

Serves in entry-level capacity on drilling crew under immediate supervision of Driller and ... Experience Minimum 2 years recent oilfield, heavy construction, mining, farming, ranching or ...

Lewis Energy Group

Floorhand

Encinal, TX

Serves in entry-level capacity on drilling crew under immediate supervision of Driller and ... Experience Minimum 2 years recent oilfield, heavy construction, mining, farming, ranching or ...

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All JobsFarm Hand JobsEntry Level Farm Hand Jobs

Entry Level Farm Hand information

See salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do entry level farm hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level farm hand in the United States is $18.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 40 too old to start farming?

Entry level farm hands can start at any age, including 40, as farming relies on skills, physical ability, and knowledge rather than age. Many farms value experience and work ethic, and age can bring valuable skills; physical fitness and willingness to learn are important factors. Starting at 40 is feasible with proper training and dedication.

How to get hired as a Farm Hand?

To get hired as a farm hand, applicants should have basic knowledge of farming tasks, physical stamina, and a willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Relevant experience or certifications in agriculture or machinery operation can improve chances, and many farms prefer candidates with a flexible schedule and reliable work ethic.

What does a typical day look like for an Entry Level Farm Hand, and how is the work structured?

As an Entry Level Farm Hand, your days are often a mix of physical tasks such as feeding animals, cleaning stalls, planting or harvesting crops, and maintaining equipment. Work is usually structured around the needs of the farm, which can mean early mornings and working outdoors in various weather conditions. You’ll likely collaborate closely with other farm hands and supervisors, receiving guidance and support as you learn new skills. The role fosters teamwork and offers hands-on experience, making it a great starting point for those interested in agricultural careers.

Can you become a Farm Hand with no experience?

Entry level farm hand positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. Basic physical fitness, willingness to learn, and the ability to work outdoors are important, and some farms may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Certifications in safety or equipment operation can be helpful but are not always necessary for entry-level roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Farm Hand vs Farm Laborer?

AspectEntry Level Farm HandFarm Laborer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; no formal certification neededHigh school diploma or equivalent; no formal certification needed
Work EnvironmentOutdoor farms, fields, barnsOutdoor farms, fields, barns
Employer & Industry UsageFarms, agricultural companiesFarms, agricultural companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve outdoor farm work with similar environments and minimal formal credentials. An Entry Level Farm Hand often implies a broader set of responsibilities and potential for skill development, while a Farm Laborer may focus more on manual tasks. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but 'Farm Hand' may suggest a slightly more versatile position.

What is the easiest thing to farm for beginners?

For an entry level farm hand, the easiest crops to farm are typically vegetables like lettuce, radishes, or herbs such as basil, as they require minimal equipment and quick growth cycles. Starting with simple, low-maintenance plants helps build skills and confidence before progressing to more complex crops or livestock.

What are entry level farm hands?

Entry level farm hands are workers who assist with basic tasks on a farm, such as planting, watering, harvesting crops, feeding animals, cleaning barns, and maintaining equipment. These positions are typically designed for individuals with little or no prior agricultural experience, making them an accessible starting point in the farming industry. Farm hands often work under the supervision of more experienced staff or farm managers and can gain valuable hands-on knowledge about farm operations. The role can be physically demanding and usually involves working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Farm Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Farm Hand, you need basic agricultural knowledge, physical stamina, and a willingness to learn, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with farm machinery, hand tools, and sometimes safety certifications like tractor operation are common requirements. Dependability, strong work ethic, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are vital for maintaining productivity, ensuring safety, and supporting the smooth operation of farm tasks.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Farm Hand jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Farm Hand job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Farm Hand jobs? The most popular types of Farm Hand jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Farm Hand jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Farm Hand jobs include:
Entry Level Farm Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Farm Hand job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,581 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Material Handler

Material Handler

Ag Processing, Inc.

Emmetsburg, IA • On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Ag Processing rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Looking for more than just a job? Start a career with long-term growth, strong pay progression, and real advancement opportunities.
Ag Processing Inc (AGP) is seeking motivated individuals who want to build a future in a stable, essential industry. No experience is required - we provide the training. What matters most is reliability, initiative, and a willingness to learn.
As a Material Handler, you'll learn the foundation of our operation by safely unloading railcars and trucks while working alongside experienced team members. You'll also gain hands-on experience operating industrial equipment and performing quality control tasks that help keep our operation running safely and efficiently.
This role is often the first step toward becoming an Operator, Lead, or Supervisor.
What You'll Learn & Do
  • Unload tank railcars and trucks safely and efficiently
  • Perform quality control testing on materials
  • Operate industrial equipment including:
    • Forklifts
    • Pallet jacks
    • Drive switches
    • Locomotive/track mobile engines
    • Other material handling equipment
  • Follow plant safety procedures and operational policies
  • Work closely with team members to support daily operations

What We're Looking For
We're looking for individuals who:
  • Take initiative and work efficiently
  • Are dependable and motivated to perform at a high level
  • Have a strong attention to detail
  • Work well as part of a team
  • Are willing to learn new skills and responsibilities
  • Can understand and follow rules, procedures, and safety policies
  • Have basic reading, math, and communication skills

Minimum Requirements
  • At least 18 years old
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to safely operate material handling equipment (training provided)
  • Ability to:
    • Carry 50 pounds
    • Lift up to 65 pounds
    • Push/pull up to 120 pounds

Work Environment
This is a hands-on industrial position. Candidates should be comfortable:
  • Working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Working around grain dust and industrial equipment
  • Climbing railcars, ladders, stairs up to 120 feet high
  • Working rotating 10-12 hour shifts including days, nights, weekends, and holidays

Typical schedule:
  • Rotating swing shifts (example: 7a-7p / 7p-7a)
  • Multiple consecutive workdays followed by multiple days off

Career Growth Opportunities
Many of our Operators and Supervisors started in entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and leadership can advance into:
  • Operator roles
  • Specialized equipment operations
  • Maintenance support roles
  • Leadership and supervisory positions

Employees who demonstrate strong performance and attendance often advance into Operator positions within 12-24 months.
Backgrounds That Translate Well
People with experience in these areas often succeed in this role:
Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • machine operation • grain handling • labor • utilities
Why Employees Stay
We offer industry-leading benefits and long-term stability, including:
  • Competitive pay with advancement opportunities
  • Clothing and boot allowance
  • 401(k) retirement plan (Roth and Traditional options) with a company match
  • 100% employer-funded pension plan
  • No-wait medical benefits
  • Paid training and career development
  • Long term disability insurance & salary continuation
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Wellness program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Adoption assistance
  • Paid time off

Who We Are
Ag Processing Inc (AGP) is a cooperative founded in 1983 that processes, sells and transports soybeans, grains, and related products. Our company has become one of the largest soybean processing cooperatives in the world and our plants process soybeans that can be used in a variety of products such as animal feed, vegetable oil, and fuels.

What Ag Processing employees say

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