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Farm Hand Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ForceSource

Farm Hand with CDL

Nevada, IA

$14 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dependable and hardworking Farm Hand / CDL Driver to join our agricultural operation. This position is responsible for assisting with day-to-day farm activities while ...

ForceSource

Farm Hand with CDL

Nevada, IA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a dependable and hardworking Farm Hand / CDL Driver to join our agricultural operation. This position is responsible for assisting with day-to-day farm activities while ...

360 Headhunter

Farm Agronomy Operator

Hawarden, IA

$60K/yr

Generational farming industry cooperative that continues to grow and evolve in size, technology and innovation is looking for an experienced farm hand to join their strong operation! This position ...

WFR

Assistant Farm Manager

Decorah, IA

Supports Farm Manager with overseeing and being actively involved in all sections of the sow farm including all areas of breeding and farrowing, management of employees, understanding of barn ...

Ag Processing

Material Handler

Sergeant Bluff, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • machine operation • grain handling • labor • utilities Why Employees Stay We offer industry-leading ...

Ag Processing

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • machine operation • grain handling • labor • utilities Why Employees Stay: We offer industry-leading ...

Ag Processing, Inc.

Material Handler

Sergeant Bluff, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • machine operation • grain handling • labor • utilities Why Employees Stay We offer industry-leading ...

Ag Processing, Inc.

Material Handler

Mason City, IA

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Farm hand warehouse manufacturing construction maintenance lawn care machine operation grain handling labor utilities Why Employees Stay We offer industry-leading benefits and long-term stability ...

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All JobsFarm Hand JobsFarm Hand Jobs in Iowa

Farm Hand information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do farm hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm hand in Iowa is $17.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges farm hands face during their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Farm hands often encounter physically demanding tasks, varying weather conditions, and the need to adapt to changing priorities on the farm. Managing these challenges involves staying physically fit, wearing appropriate protective gear, and maintaining clear communication with supervisors and team members. Flexibility and a willingness to learn new skills are also important, as farm duties can change seasonally or due to unexpected circumstances. Building strong relationships with coworkers helps create a supportive environment, making it easier to tackle demanding days.

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

To thrive as a Farm Hand, you need practical experience in crop or livestock care, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with farm machinery, irrigation systems, and sometimes certifications in pesticide application are valuable assets. Reliability, strong work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure efficient farm operations, safety, and the consistent production of high-quality agricultural products.

How much do farm hands make a month?

Farm hands typically earn between $1,200 and $2,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and the size of the farm. Wages may also vary based on the specific tasks performed and whether the position is seasonal or year-round.

What is the difference between Farm Hand vs Farm Worker?

AspectFarm HandFarm Worker
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications required; experience preferredSimilar; often no formal certifications needed
Work EnvironmentOutdoor farms, fields, ranchesOutdoor farms, fields, ranches
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in agriculture, livestock, and crop farmsUsed interchangeably with Farm Hand in agriculture
Job ResponsibilitiesPlanting, harvesting, animal care, equipment operationPlanting, harvesting, animal care, equipment operation

Farm Hand and Farm Worker are often used interchangeably, involving similar duties in agricultural settings. Both roles typically require physical labor outdoors, with minimal formal certifications. The main difference lies in terminology preference rather than job function, making them comparable positions within the farming industry.

What do you do as a Farm Hand?

A farm hand performs tasks such as planting, watering, and harvesting crops, caring for livestock, operating farm equipment, and maintaining the farm environment. The role often requires physical stamina, basic knowledge of agriculture, and adherence to safety protocols. Farm hands typically work outdoors and may follow a seasonal or flexible schedule.

How do I become a ranch hand?

To become a ranch hand, gain experience working with livestock and farm equipment, often through entry-level positions or apprenticeships. Physical fitness, the ability to operate machinery, and knowledge of animal care are important; some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent.

What are common farm jobs?

Common farm jobs for a farm hand include planting, watering, and harvesting crops, caring for livestock such as feeding and cleaning animals, operating machinery like tractors, and maintaining farm equipment and facilities. These roles often require physical stamina, basic knowledge of agriculture, and adherence to safety protocols.

How to Become a Farm Hand

Farm hands gain skills through on the job training, and no formal education is required. They must have physical stamina for manual labor in all types of weather, as well as the ability to work with teams and independently. Skills include familiarity with animals and farming equipment, as farm hands often troubleshoot and make repairs. Courses in animal husbandry, biology, mechanics, eco-farming, and other related subjects can be found at vocational schools and may be beneficial.

What are farm hands?

Farm hands are workers who assist with the day-to-day operations on a farm. Their responsibilities often include planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops, as well as caring for livestock, repairing equipment, and maintaining farm buildings. Farm hands may work on a variety of farms, including crop farms, dairy farms, and ranches, and their tasks can be physically demanding and vary by season. They play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient running of agricultural operations.
More about Farm Hand jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Farm Hand jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Farm Hand jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Farm Hand jobs in Iowa? For Farm Hand jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Farm Hand jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Farm Hand jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Farm Hand jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Farm Hand job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Farm Hand jobs in IA? For Farm Hand jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Farm Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Farm Hand job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,238 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Farm Hand with CDL

ForceSource

Nevada, IA

$14 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and hardworking Farm Hand / CDL Driver to join our agricultural operation. This position is responsible for assisting with day-to-day farm activities while safely operating commercial vehicles and agricultural equipment. The ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, has experience operating heavy equipment, and is willing to work flexible hours during planting and harvest seasons.

Essential ResponsibilitiesFarm Operations
  • Assist with planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops.
  • Operate tractors, combines, sprayers, grain carts, skid loaders, and other farm equipment.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance.
  • Load and unload seed, fertilizer, grain, and other agricultural products.
  • Assist with grain handling, drying, and storage operations.
  • Maintain farm buildings, fences, and equipment.
  • Keep the farm clean, organized, and operating efficiently.
CDL Driving Duties
  • Safely operate semi-trucks and trailers to transport grain, seed, fertilizer, equipment, and supplies.
  • Deliver grain to elevators, ethanol plants, feed mills, and processing facilities.
  • Transport agricultural equipment between farm locations as needed.
  • Complete pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
  • Maintain accurate logbooks and required DOT documentation.
  • Ensure all loads are properly secured and transported safely.
  • Comply with all DOT regulations and company safety policies.
Qualifications
  • Valid Class A CDL (required)
  • Clean driving record
  • Ability to obtain or maintain a DOT Medical Certificate
  • Experience operating agricultural equipment preferred
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform basic equipment maintenance
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Strong work ethic and positive attitude
  • Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays during planting and harvest
Preferred Qualifications
  • 2+ years of farm or agricultural experience
  • Experience hauling grain with hopper-bottom trailers
  • Experience operating GPS-guided farming equipment
  • Commercial pesticide applicator license (preferred but not required)
  • Welding or fabrication experience is a plus
  • Knowledge of precision agriculture technology
Physical Requirements
  • Frequently lift up to 75 pounds
  • Climb ladders and grain bins
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Sit for extended periods while operating equipment
  • Walk on uneven terrain
  • Bend, kneel, squat, and climb regularly
Work Environment
  • Outdoor agricultural environment
  • Exposure to dust, grain, chemicals, and changing weather conditions
  • Seasonal overtime during planting and harvest
  • Flexible schedule based on weather and crop conditions
Benefits
  • Competitive hourly wage or salary
  • Overtime opportunities during peak seasons
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance (if applicable)
  • Retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Uniform allowance (if applicable)
  • Opportunities for advancement
Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a reliable, self-motivated individual who enjoys agriculture and takes pride in operating equipment safely and efficiently. This person is comfortable transitioning between fieldwork, truck driving, equipment maintenance, and general farm responsibilities while supporting the overall success of the farming operation.

Apply