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Entry Level Farming Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Professional Applicator

Sanborn, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Earnings Potential: $65,000 to $95,000 yearly Entry level encouraged to apply! We will train you in ... Willingness to learn or familiarity with crop chemicals, farming practices, crop characteristics ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Avoca, IA · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Harlan, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Harlan, IA · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Avoca, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Hamlin, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Avoca, IA · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Harlan, IA · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Custom Applicator & Operations

Winterset, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

From supporting the farmers who help feed the world, to delivering propane to keep homes warm in ... today. Entry level encouraged to apply! (Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver ...

Be Seen First

Solar Installer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... plus. Entry Level Candidates: -Roofing, Carpentry and/or other demanding working conditions ... to farmers, businesses, schools, municipalities, and homeowners. Our mission is to empower ...

Crane Operator/Loader Russel Metals (USA) Inc. 1 Positions ID: 87009 Posted On 02/02/2026 Refreshed On 08/07/2026 Job Overview Summary of Essential Job Functions/Responsibilities • Operate overhead ...

Cutter I

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... farms- hearth breads, and made-from-scratch deli meals, sides and desserts. Learn more. Now Hiring ... Position Summary The Meat & Seafood Cutter I is an entry level to developing role focused on ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Farming information

See Iowa salary details

$37.6K

$47.7K

$55.4K

How much do entry level farming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level farming in Iowa is $47,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $51,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get started working on a farm?

To start working as an entry-level farmer, gain basic knowledge of agriculture and farm operations, and consider volunteering or applying for internships on local farms. Physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors are important, and some positions may require a valid driver's license or the ability to operate farm equipment. No formal education is typically required, but hands-on experience and a strong work ethic are valued.

Is it possible to get into entry level farming with no experience?

Entry level farming jobs often do not require prior experience, as employers may provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as physical fitness, willingness to work outdoors, and knowledge of farm tools can improve chances of hiring. Certifications like OSHA safety training or pesticide licenses can also be beneficial but are not always mandatory for entry-level positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level farming professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Farming professional, you need basic knowledge of crop or livestock care, physical stamina, and a willingness to learn, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with farm equipment, irrigation systems, and basic safety protocols is commonly required. Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure tasks are performed safely, efficiently, and contribute to a productive farm operation.

What is entry level farming?

Entry level farming jobs are positions in agriculture that require little to no prior experience and provide hands-on training for new workers. These roles typically involve tasks such as planting, harvesting, irrigation, operating basic machinery, and general farm maintenance. They are ideal for individuals looking to start a career in farming or gain practical experience in agriculture. Employers may seek candidates with a strong work ethic, physical stamina, and willingness to learn. Entry level farming jobs can serve as a stepping stone to more specialized or supervisory roles in the agricultural industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Farming vs Farm Worker?

AspectEntry Level FarmingFarm Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic knowledge of farming practicesTypically similar; no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor farms, varying weather conditionsOutdoor farm settings, physically demanding
Employer & Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in agriculture sectorsCommonly used term for labor roles on farms
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level agricultural rolesSimilar job functions, different terminology

Entry Level Farming and Farm Worker roles are similar in credentials, work environment, and industry usage. Both involve outdoor, physically demanding work on farms, often requiring minimal formal education. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, with 'Entry Level Farming' emphasizing a broader scope of initial agricultural work, while 'Farm Worker' specifically refers to labor roles. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find relevant opportunities in agriculture.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level farming employees, and how can they best prepare for them?

Entry level farming roles often involve physically demanding work, variable weather conditions, and learning new equipment or techniques. New employees may face challenges such as long hours during peak seasons, adapting to early morning starts, and quickly picking up practical skills like planting, harvesting, or operating machinery. The best preparation includes maintaining good physical health, being open to hands-on learning, and communicating proactively with supervisors and more experienced coworkers. Most entry level farmers find that a positive attitude and willingness to ask questions help them succeed and grow in the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Farming jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Farming jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Farming jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Farming job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Farming job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,746 per year, or $23 per hour.

Custom Applicator - Agronomy Laborer

Gold-Eagle Cooperative

Woden, IA • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Gold-Eagle Cooperative rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 65 rated farming


Job description

Gold-Eagle Cooperative in Woden, IA has an incredible entry-level opportunity for a hard worker who's interested in the agriculture industry! We're hiring a full-time Custom Applicator - Agronomy Laborer to operate equipment and complete quality work in the farm fields.This is a great chance to learn new skills and gain valuable hands-on experience within an essential industry! Not only do you make $19.00 - $25.00/hour, based on experience, but you also receive a $1,500 sign-on bonus and could earn an acre bonus potential! We haven't even mentioned our exceptional benefits package yet, which offers (after a 30-day probation period):Health, dental, vision, and life insuranceSTD/LTD benefits$500 clothing allowanceMedical/child care flexible spending401k with company matchFunded by employer pension planPaid time off (You receive 12 days for the first 2 years that are available after 30 days of employment. PTO rolls over each year but is capped at 500 hours.)6 paid holidaysPaid courses and training for CDL certificationYou're not going to find many jobs like this one; apply to be a Custom Applicator - Agronomy Laborer today! QUALIFICATIONSExcellent hand-eye coordination with the ability to operate equipmentAbility to follow labels when blending fertilizer and crop protection productsAbility to read maps, follow directions, and maneuver equipment with computer-assisted operationsPhysical ability to perform tasks such as lifting heavy objects and completing routine machinery maintenanceEagerness to learn more and grow within the tradeValid driver's license and a good driving recordA custom applicator's license or CDL would be recommended. Don't worry if you lack experience; we will train you! WHY JOIN US?Gold-Eagle Cooperative is a tight-knit organization rooted in the vibrant agriculture community of north-central Iowa. For over a century, we've grown alongside our members, embracing change while staying true to our cooperative values. Our facilities are hubs of innovation, equipped with cutting-edge technology to support farmers every step of the way.From the fields to the office, we celebrate collaboration, flexibility, and a strong sense of belonging. Just ask our employees-they'll tell you about our recent survey, where we scored an impressive 85% in satisfaction and a whopping 95% in culture and benefits. Join our supportive community where your work makes a real difference. WHAT DOES A CUSTOM APPLICATOR - AGRONOMY LABORER DO?This position typically works Monday - Friday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm with extended hours and weekends during the peak season.As directed by your manager, you safely and accurately operate application equipment and other agronomy machinery. You calibrate machines before each season and perform basic equipment maintenance to keep all our tools running well. When you're not operating equipment, you're working with your team to perform general labor.If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference in the agricultural industry, apply now! Just fill out our quick and easy initial application to get started.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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