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Farm Hand Operator Jobs in Columbus, WI (NOW HIRING)

The Agriculture Mechanic will also provide operating and maintenance assistance to the farm ... Basic use of hand and power tools is required. Must have own hand tools. * Welding and fabrication ...

The Agriculture Mechanic will also provide operating and maintenance assistance to the farm ... Basic use of hand and power tools is required. Must have own hand tools. * Welding and fabrication ...

Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great! The Agriculture Mechanic will monitor product flow ... Troubleshoot breakdowns to determine the cause of the operating problems * Make necessary repairs ...

Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great! The Agriculture Mechanic will monitor product flow ... Troubleshoot breakdowns to determine the cause of the operating problems * Make necessary repairs ...

Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great! Come join the Seneca Foods team - Apply now! POSITION ... Hand Movement, Sitting, Crawling, Reading, Writing, Twisting/Turning, Pushing/Pulling, Hand/Eye ...

Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great! Come join the Seneca Foods team - Apply now! POSITION ... Hand Movement, Sitting, Crawling, Reading, Writing, Twisting/Turning, Pushing/Pulling, Hand/Eye ...

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Farm Hand Operator information

See Columbus, WI salary details

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$27

How much do farm hand operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm hand operator in Columbus, WI is $20.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a farm hand operator?

Farm Hand Operators are workers who assist with daily operations on a farm, such as planting, harvesting, feeding livestock, operating machinery, and maintaining equipment. They may work on different types of farms, including crop, dairy, or livestock farms, and their duties can vary depending on the season and farm needs. Farm Hand Operators play a vital role in ensuring the productivity and efficiency of farm operations, often working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a farm hand operator?

To thrive as a Farm Hand Operator, you need practical knowledge of crop and livestock management, basic machinery operation, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tractors, irrigation systems, and sometimes GPS-guided equipment is typically required. Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for the role. These abilities ensure efficient farm operations, safety, and the successful maintenance of agricultural productivity.

What are some common challenges farm hand operators face during peak seasons, and how can they prepare for them?

During peak seasons such as planting and harvest, Farm Hand Operators often face long work hours, increased physical demands, and quickly changing weather conditions. Preparation is key—staying organized, maintaining equipment ahead of busy times, and communicating regularly with the farm team can help manage workloads. Adapting to shifting priorities and being flexible with tasks is also essential, as daily responsibilities can change rapidly depending on crop needs and unexpected issues.

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

AspectFarm Hand OperatorFarm Worker
CredentialsMay require machinery operation certificationsTypically no formal certifications required
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery, manages equipmentPerforms manual labor, planting, harvesting
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in commercial farms with mechanized operationsCommon in small-scale and large farms
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for machinery operation rolesMore general labor roles in farming

The main difference between a Farm Hand Operator and a Farm Worker lies in their responsibilities and required skills. Farm Hand Operators typically operate machinery and may need specific certifications, while Farm Workers focus on manual tasks without formal credentials. Both roles are essential in agricultural settings, but the Farm Hand Operator usually handles more technical equipment and mechanized processes.

How much do farm hand operators make in the US?

Farm hand operators in the US typically earn around $25,000 to $35,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks performed. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and seasonal work can also impact total earnings.

How to get hired as a farm hand operator?

To get hired as a farm hand operator, candidates should have experience with farm machinery and equipment, such as tractors and harvesters. A high school diploma or equivalent is often required, along with physical stamina and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Some employers may prefer certifications in equipment operation or safety training.

What cities near Columbus, WI are hiring for Farm Hand Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbus, WI with the most Farm Hand Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Farm Hand Operator job openings in Columbus, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,491 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Ag Maintenance Mechanic

Clyman, WI • On-site

SENECA FOODS
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Monitor product flow during harvesting to ensure uninterrupted flow to the plants and relieve Harvester Operators when necessary.

  • Perform preventative maintenance on harvesting equipment during the off-season and provide operating and maintenance assistance to farm operations, including tillage, planting, and crop care equipment.

  • Operate, maintain, repair, troubleshoot, and overhaul a variety of agricultural equipment, ensuring safety and quality standards are met.


Seneca Foods rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Seneca Foods is one of North America's leading providers of packaged fruits and vegetables with facilities located throughout the United States.  Our high quality products are primarily sourced from over 1,400 American farms. Seneca holds the largest share of the retail private label, food service, and export canned vegetable markets, distributing to over 90 countries. Products are also sold under the brands of Libby's, Aunt Nellie's, READ, Seneca Farms, Green Valley, Green Giant (Shelf-Stable), CherryMan, Paradise, Pennant, and Seneca labels, including Seneca snack chips. Seneca also provides vegetable products to other companies under various co-pack arrangements.

Seneca Foods offers an excellent benefit package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, 401K, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Paid Time Off and more!  Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great!  Come join the Seneca Foods team - Apply now!

Seneca Foods in Clyman, WI is currently seeking an Agricultural Equipment Mechanic to join our team.  Seneca Foods offers an excellent benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K, paid time off and much more!  Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great!

The Agriculture Mechanic will monitor product flow during harvesting to ensure uninterrupted flow to the plants and relieve Harvester Operators when necessary. The Ag Mechanic is also responsible for the preventative maintenance of harvesting equipment during the off-season in preparation for the upcoming harvest. 

The Agriculture Mechanic will also provide operating and maintenance assistance to the farm operation. This will include tillage, planting, and crop care equipment along with vehicles necessary for farming operations.

The Ripon Ag Shop is a unique work environment where mechanics spend the off-season overhauling in the shop and harvest season is spent in the field monitoring machines and making needed repairs in the field. Seneca offers in-house training on shop equipment including mill and lathe, welding, hydraulics, AC systems, and more!


Essential Job Functions:

  • Operate, maintain and repair a variety of Agricultural equipment
  • Troubleshoot breakdowns to determine the cause of the operating problems
  • Make necessary repairs and maintenance to harvest equipment and related equipment which may include modifications and upgrades to mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems for diesel fuel equipment
  • Overhaul and rebuild equipment during non-processing season
  • Maintain cost control over equipment for budget purposes
  • Maintenance in other areas of the facility when needed
  • Responsible for maintaining an even, constant and sufficient flow of product of a quality that meets or exceeds company standards during harvest season
  • Ensure that GMP's (General Manufacturing Practices), safety rules and regulations are being followed and enforced
  • Work in conjunction with Area Supervisors to maintain production and quality
  • Supervise assigned seasonal employees during seasonal harvest operations
  • Ability to work on assigned equipment on elevated platforms, ladders, and scissor lift
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50lbs

Qualifications:

  • One (1) to three (3) years of related mechanical experience.
  • Must have valid Driver's License. A CDL would be beneficial but not required
  • Basic use of hand and power tools is required. Must have own hand tools.
  • Welding and fabrication skills would be a plus
  • Good written and oral communications skills
  • Ability to read and write the English language
  • Reliability and dependability are a must
  • Position requires extended work hours during the harvest season

Seneca Foods Corporation is committed to providing equal opportunity for all, through a positive and continuing affirmative action program. No employee or applicant will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, military and/or veteran status or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. Seneca Foods Corporation will make reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of otherwise qualified employees and applicants with disabilities unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and feel you need a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact us at ADA@senecafoods.com or call 585-495-4100.


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