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Farm Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bethel Farms is interviewing candidates for a Farm Equipment Mechanic position that will be ... Talking to equipment operators to gather feedback on issues to troubleshoot, locate, and diagnose ...

Description Bethel Farms is interviewing candidates for a Farm Equipment Mechanic position that ... Talking to equipment operators to gather feedback on issues to troubleshoot, locate, and diagnose ...

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 ...

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This role focuses on daily row crop farming operations -- including seed corn production -- along with equipment operation and maintenance, with some support for our precision agriculture services.

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Farm Equipment Operator information

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$12

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$27

How much do farm equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 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.

How much do agricultural equipment operators make?

Agricultural equipment operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications or experience in large-scale farms can earn higher wages, especially when working long hours or during peak seasons.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those with specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications in operating complex machinery like cranes or bulldozers. In certain industries or regions, operators working in construction, mining, or oil and gas extraction can earn significantly higher wages, sometimes exceeding $70,000 annually. Advanced training and operating high-demand equipment typically lead to higher compensation.

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.

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.

What is the highest paid job in farming?

The highest paid jobs in farming often include farm managers, agricultural engineers, and specialized crop or livestock consultants, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and farm size. These roles typically require advanced skills, management experience, and sometimes certifications, and they oversee large-scale operations or technical aspects of farming. Compensation can reach six figures for top-level positions in large or commercial farms.
What cities are hiring for Farm Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Farm Equipment Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Farm Equipment Operator jobs? The top employers for Farm Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Farm Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Farm Equipment Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Farm Equipment Operator jobs? For Farm Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Farm Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,068 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Farm Equipment Operator Technician (NON-CDL)

Farm Equipment Operator Technician (NON-CDL)

Wind River Environmental LLC

Dallas, NC • On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Wind River Environmental rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 71 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Description:

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled Farm Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience operating farm equipment and working with non-hazardous waste materials. As a Farm Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining various types of farm equipment to ensure efficient and safe operation.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain heavy farm equipment such as front-end loader, water truck windrow turner, tractor, AND DUMP TRUCK
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment to ensure proper functioning
  • Follow safety procedures and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment
  • Work with non-hazardous waste materials in a responsible and environmentally friendly manner
  • Maintain accurate records of equipment usage and maintenance
  • Communicate effectively with other team members to ensure efficient operations
  • Follow all Wind River Environmental safety protocols
  • Other duties as assigned by management

Work Environment

  • You are regularly exposed outside weather conditions and non-hazardous fumes
  • Must be comfortable working independently
  • Interaction with customers periodically
Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to read and interpret documents including Company policies and procedures, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, maps and road signs.
  • Ability to speak, cooperate and communicate effectively with customers, co-workers and management.
  • Ability to work independently and manage pressure to meet deadlines.
  • Basic computer literacy including email and internet skills.
  • Ability to perform basic math functions.

Required Qualifications

  • Must have a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
  • Ability to successfully pass drug screen, medical certification, physical exam and road exams
  • Must be able to operate in a drug-free workplace
  • Must be able to meet physical demands evaluation
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
  • High-School Diploma

The base pay range for this role is estimated to be $20.00 - $21.00 hourly at the time of posting. Final compensation will be determined by various factors such as work location, education, experience, knowledge, and skills.


Wind River Environmental services and maintains a broad array of non-hazardous liquid waste systems, including grease traps, septic tanks and related waste systems. Headquartered in Marlborough, MA we offer a full suite of services to business, residential and municipal customers throughout the East Coast.


Wind River Environment LLC is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with applicable law, we prohibit discrimination against any applicant or employee based on any legally-recognized basis, including, but not limited to: race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation , gender identity , age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed servicemember status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. Our commitment to equal opportunity employment applies to all persons involved in our operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee, including supervisors and co-workers.“Wind River Environmental participates in E-Verify. Additional information is available in English (PDF) and Spanish (PDF).”


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