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Farm Hand Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Land O'Lakes

Maintenance Manager

Turlock, CA

$81K - $121K/yr

Willing to assist technicians when needed. * Required to possess own hand tools to use when needed ... Join us and be part of a Fortune 250, farmer- and member-owned cooperative that is reimagining the ...

Chipotle

Service Leader

Turlock, CA

$16.75 - $22/hr

... farming and food. We hope you will join us as we continue to learn, evolve, and shape what comes ... Supporting food safety which includes the following: ensuring hand washing and glove changes ...

CHIPOTLE

Service Leader

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

... farming and food. We hope you will join us as we continue to learn, evolve, and shape what comes ... Supporting food safety which includes the following: ensuring hand washing and glove changes ...

All JobsFarm Hand JobsFarm Hand Assistant JobsFarm Hand Assistant Jobs in Merced, CA

Farm Hand Assistant information

See Merced, CA salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do farm hand assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm hand assistant in Merced, CA is $18.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Farm Hand vs Farm Worker?

AspectAssistant Farm HandFarm Worker
CredentialsMinimal; often on-the-job trainingMinimal; similar requirements
Work EnvironmentRural farms, outdoor settingsRural farms, outdoor settings
Employer UsageAssists with farm tasks under supervisionPerforms manual labor tasks on farms
Common Search IntentCompare entry-level farm rolesManual farm labor jobs

The main difference between an Assistant Farm Hand and a Farm Worker is that the Assistant Farm Hand typically assists with various farm tasks under supervision, often requiring minimal experience, while a Farm Worker performs manual labor duties directly on the farm. Both roles are essential in agricultural settings and share similar work environments and credentials.

What is an assistant farm hand?

Assistant Farm Hands are workers who support farmers and farm managers with daily agricultural tasks. Their duties typically include feeding and caring for livestock, planting and harvesting crops, operating basic farm machinery, cleaning barns and equipment, and performing general maintenance work around the farm. This role requires physical stamina, a willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and the ability to follow instructions. Assistant Farm Hands play an essential role in ensuring the efficient and smooth operation of a farm.

What challenges do assistant farm hands face during peak season, and how can they be managed?

During peak seasons, Assistant Farm Hands often encounter long hours, physically demanding tasks, and the need to adapt quickly to changing weather or crop conditions. Effective time management, open communication with supervisors, and proper use of equipment can help manage these challenges. Additionally, maintaining hydration, using correct lifting techniques, and being proactive about safety measures are essential for sustaining productivity and reducing the risk of injury during busy periods.

How to get hired as an assistant farm hand?

To get hired as an assistant farm hand, applicants should have basic knowledge of farming tasks, physical stamina, and the ability to operate farm equipment. Relevant experience, a willingness to work outdoors, and sometimes a valid driver's license are also beneficial. Applying directly to farms, agricultural businesses, or through local job boards can increase chances of employment.

What are the duties of an assistant farm hand?

An assistant farm hand performs tasks such as feeding and caring for livestock, planting, watering, and harvesting crops, and maintaining farm equipment and facilities. They often work under the supervision of a farm manager and may need basic knowledge of farming tools and safety procedures.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an assistant farm hand?

To thrive as an Assistant Farm Hand, you need basic agricultural knowledge, physical stamina, and the ability to follow instructions, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant experience. Familiarity with farm machinery, irrigation systems, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient farm operations, safe work practices, and contribute to successful crop or livestock management.

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Farm Hand Assistant jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Farm Hand Assistant job openings:

Farm Hand Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Farm Hand Assistant job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,791 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Assistant Plant Manager (Nights) - Fresh

Foster Farms

Livingston, CA • On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Foster Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 438 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Description Pay Range: $130,925 - $168,925 per year Job Description The Assistant Plant Manager will work hand in hand with the plant manager and oversee the daily activities of the plant operations. Develops and manages production schedules to meet internal volume, cost, and quality goals. Analyzes production metrics and makes recommendations for improvements and solutions to issues that are identified. Oversees staffing and development of all production supervisors and staff. Ensures safe operations and adherence to regulatory requirements. Essential Functions Plan, organize, direct and run optimum day-to-day operations to exceed our customers' expectations. Increase production, assets capacity and flexibility while minimizing unnecessary costs and maintaining current quality standards. Be responsible for production output, product quality and on-time shipping. Allocate resources effectively and fully utilize assets to produce optimal results Implement strategies in alignment with strategic initiatives and provide a clear sense of direction and focus. Monitor operations and trigger corrective actions. Share a trusting relationship with workgroup and recruit, manage and develop plant staff. Collect and analyze data to find places of waste or overtime. Commit to plant safety procedures. Develop systems and processes that track and optimize productivity and standards, metrics and performance targets to ensure effective return on assets. Qualifications 8+ years of progressively responsible management in the food processing industry, preferably in the poultry business. Bachelor's degree in business administration or related fields preferred. Demonstrated financial understanding to include budgeting, staffing, and cost analysis. Demonstrated leadership skills and drive. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Strong oral and written communications skills and the ability to work in both individual and teamwork settings. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, financial software, etc.

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