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Farm Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MNL

Farm Tractor/Equipment Operator

Foley, MN · On-site

$25/hr

Do you enjoy operating farm equipment and taking ownership of keeping it running smoothly ? Are you someone who can move from the field to the shop and back again depending on the season ? Do you ...

Css Farms

Seasonal Equipment Operator

Bliss, NY · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

CSS Farms is a multi-state agricultural business with a mission of Growing Great Together. We ... These positions are responsible for skillfully operating and maintaining farm equipment.

3B Construction

Farm Tractor Operator (56706)

Tatum, TX · On-site

The operator will also perform routine maintenance to ensure equipment is in good working condition, contributing to the overall productivity and efficiency of farm operations. Key Responsibilities ...

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Farm Equipment Operator information

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How much do farm equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm equipment operator in the United States is $21.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a farm equipment operator do?

A farm equipment operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery such as tractors, plows, harvesters, and other agricultural equipment to plant, cultivate, and harvest crops. They often perform routine inspections, follow safety protocols, and may need certifications or training in equipment operation. The job typically involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and adhering to schedules aligned with planting and harvesting seasons.

How much do farm operators make?

Farm equipment operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the farm. Skilled operators who handle advanced machinery or work in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, and some may receive benefits such as overtime pay or housing allowances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Farm Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Farm Equipment Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with agricultural machinery, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, tractor controls, and safety certifications like a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently set top operators apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, maximize crop yields, and minimize costly mistakes on the farm.

How much does an agricultural equipment operator make?

Agricultural equipment operators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized training may earn higher wages, especially during peak seasons or in large-scale farms.

What are some common challenges Farm Equipment Operators face during peak seasons?

During peak planting and harvesting seasons, Farm Equipment Operators often work long hours and must adapt to changing weather conditions. Equipment breakdowns and maintenance issues can add pressure, requiring quick troubleshooting skills to minimize downtime. Additionally, coordinating with other team members and keeping up with tight production schedules are essential for ensuring smooth operations and meeting farm deadlines.

What are Farm Equipment Operators?

Farm Equipment Operators are skilled workers who operate and maintain machinery used in agricultural settings, such as tractors, combines, balers, and plows. They are responsible for preparing fields, planting crops, applying fertilizers or pesticides, and harvesting produce. In addition to operating machinery, they often perform routine maintenance and minor repairs to ensure equipment runs efficiently. Farm Equipment Operators play a crucial role in modern farming by increasing productivity and supporting various tasks throughout the farming cycle.

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

AspectFarm Equipment OperatorTractor Driver
CredentialsMay require CDL or specialized certificationsOften requires only a valid driver's license
Work EnvironmentOperates various farm machinery across fields and farmsPrimarily operates tractors, often on farms or construction sites
Industry UsageUsed broadly in agriculture, forestry, and constructionPrimarily in agriculture and landscaping
Job ScopeHandles multiple types of equipment and tasksFocuses mainly on tractor operation

Farm Equipment Operators and Tractor Drivers both work in agriculture, but Farm Equipment Operators typically handle a wider range of machinery and may require additional certifications. Tractor Drivers focus mainly on operating tractors, often with simpler licensing requirements. Both roles are essential in farming operations, but Farm Equipment Operators have a broader scope of responsibilities.

What is the highest paid equipment operator job?

The highest paid equipment operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as crane or heavy construction equipment operators, with median annual wages exceeding $60,000 and top earners making over $100,000. These roles typically require advanced certifications, experience, and operating large or complex machinery in demanding environments.
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Farm Equipment Operator jobs near you
Farm Equipment Operator (Grand View, ID)

Farm Equipment Operator (Grand View, ID)

J.R. Simplot Company

Grand View, ID • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

The J.R. Simplot Company is a diverse, privately held global food and agriculture company headquartered in Boise, Idaho. We are a true farm-to-table company with an integrated portfolio including food processing and food brands, phosphate mining, fertilizer manufacturing, farming, ranching and cattle production, and other enterprises related to agriculture.

Summary

Operates heavy equipment and related implements to accomplish various assigned farming and/or construction tasks by performing the following duties. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Operates farming equipment including tractors and trucks to plane, plow, plant, disc, and cultivate farm ground and harvest crops; mixes and sprays chemicals and/or fertilizer in order to maximize crop yield. 
  • Performs light maintenance on equipment such as replenishing fuel, checking oil levels, etc.; ensures equipment is serviced in a timely manner by mechanics. 
  • Operates heavy equipment such as cement trucks, backhoes, loaders, and graders to perform maintenance and/or construction projects.  
  • Other duties may be assigned. 
Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Relevant Experience
  • Must be a licensed driver of single axle vehicles.
  • 1+ years related agricultural experience. 
  • Demonstrated ability in the operation of various pieces of heavy construction equipment and specialized farm equipment. 
Language Skills
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. 
  • Ability to write simple correspondence.  
  • Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one situations to employees and managers of the organization. 
Mathematical Skills
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. 
  • Ability to compute rates, ratios, and percentages and to draw and interpret bar graphs. 
Reasoning Ability
  • Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. 
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations. 
Additional Skills & Abilities

Ability to properly mix and apply agricultural chemicals and fertilizers. 

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and reach with hands and arms. 
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and frequently lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include distance vision and depth perception. 
Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts and in outside weather conditions. 
  • The employee is frequently exposed to vibration. 
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, dust, fumes, and toxic or caustic chemicals.  
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. 

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

This role does not offer relocation support; candidates must be local or willing to relocate independently.

Job Requisition ID: 26349

Travel Required: None

Location(s): L&L Farm 1 - Grand View 

Country: United States


**The J.R. Simplot Company is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other protected status. 

If the Simplot Company decides to offer you this position, such offer will be conditioned on your satisfactory completion of a post-offer criminal background check. For Washington Job Applicants, see the Washington State Attorney General's Washington Fair Chance Act Guide and RCW 49.94.010 for more information.**

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About J.R. Simplot

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The J.R. Simplot Company is a diverse, privately held organization, with roots firmly planted in agriculture and agriculture-related businesses.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Boise, ID, US

Year founded

1955

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