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Farm Laborer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This role supports Farmer Focus production operations by helping process products safely, efficiently, and according to company standards. General Labor team members play an important role in ...

This role supports Farmer Focus production operations by helping process products safely, efficiently, and according to company standards. General Labor team members playan important ...

This role supports Farmer Focus production operations by helping process products safely, efficiently, and according to company standards. General Labor team members play an important role in ...

Herdsperson 4/ Farm Power-washer - this person will be required to go to our farm locations and ... Ability to do hard physical labor. * Strong commitment to teamwork. * Willingness to shower daily ...

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Farm Laborer information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$28

How much do farm laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm laborer in Virginia is $17.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a farm laborer?

Farm laborers are workers who perform a variety of tasks on farms, such as planting, cultivating, harvesting crops, and caring for livestock. Their duties may include operating machinery, irrigating fields, applying fertilizers, and maintaining farm equipment. Farm laborers often work outdoors in different weather conditions and may be employed on a seasonal or year-round basis, depending on the type of farm. They play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and productivity of agricultural businesses.

What does a farm laborer do?

As a farm laborer, you can complete many different duties on various types of farms. Your duties may include harvesting crops from a field, operating farming equipment, or caring for animals on the farm. Maintenance of machinery and equipment may also be a part of your responsibilities. Full-time work on larger farms is available, as is seasonal or day-to-day work at smaller locations. Work requirements change from farm to farm and by the season. You may use conveyors, milking equipment, or harvesting vehicles. Since this is a general title, you may need to narrow your search to find a specific job.

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

To thrive as a Farm Laborer, you need physical stamina, basic agricultural knowledge, and the ability to operate farm machinery, often with no formal education required but sometimes preferring a high school diploma. Familiarity with tools like tractors, irrigation systems, and sometimes pesticide application equipment is valuable. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are essential soft skills for this hands-on role. These skills ensure efficient farm operations, crop quality, and safe working environments.

What are some common challenges farm laborers face during peak harvest season?

During peak harvest season, farm laborers often experience long working hours and physically demanding tasks, such as lifting, bending, and repetitive motions. Weather conditions can also pose challenges, as laborers may work in extreme heat, cold, or rain. Additionally, the fast-paced environment requires strong teamwork and communication to ensure crops are harvested efficiently and meet quality standards. Being adaptable and maintaining a strong work ethic are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Farm Laborer vs Farm Hand?

AspectFarm LaborerFarm Hand
CredentialsNone typically required, some experience preferredNone typically required, hands-on experience valued
Work EnvironmentOutdoor farms, fields, orchardsOutdoor farms, fields, orchards
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in agriculture, seasonal workCommon in agriculture, seasonal work
Job DutiesPlanting, harvesting, basic farm tasksPlanting, harvesting, equipment operation

Both Farm Laborer and Farm Hand roles involve outdoor agricultural work, often during harvest seasons. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, 'Farm Laborer' generally emphasizes basic manual tasks, whereas 'Farm Hand' may imply additional responsibilities like equipment handling. Both positions typically require no formal credentials and are seasonal, making them accessible entry points into farming careers.

Is there a shortage of farm laborers?

There is a recognized shortage of farm laborers in many regions due to factors such as aging workers, immigration policies, and the physically demanding nature of the work. This has led to increased demand for seasonal and temporary workers, often requiring knowledge of agricultural practices and sometimes certifications in safety or equipment operation.

What are popular job titles related to Farm Laborer jobs in Virginia?

For Farm Laborer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Farm Laborer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Farm Laborer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Farm Laborer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,096 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

General Labor 2nd Shift

Farmer Focus

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

2nd Shift General Labor Job Description
Job Title: General Labor
Department: Production
Reports To: Debone Superintendent
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: On Plant / Assigned Location(s)
Work Arrangement: On-Site
Shift / Schedule: 2nd Shift
Travel Requirements: None
Employment Type: Full-time
Role Overview / Purpose and Scope
The General Labor position works in a production area processing poultry products. This role may involve working with live poultry, raw products, and/or cooked products depending on the assigned department and production needs. Typical assignments may include live hang, evisceration, debone, cut up, marinating, stack off, Polybag, Retail, Warehouse, and other production areas.
This role supports Farmer Focus production operations by helping process products safely, efficiently, and according to company standards. General Labor team members play an important role in maintaining product quality, supporting production flow, following safety procedures, and helping ensure a clean and safe work environment. This position usually works five to six days per week, and overtime may be required based on production needs.
Key Responsibilities
  • Work at various stations along the production line processing poultry food products.

  • Perform assigned general labor duties in production areas, which may include live hang, evisceration, debone, cut up, marinating, stack off, Polybag, Retail, Warehouse, or other areas as needed.

  • Handle live poultry, raw products, and/or cooked products depending on department assignment.

  • Follow all safety requirements, including use of required personal protective equipment.

  • Prevent and report unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, hazards, or safety concerns.

  • Follow lockout/tagout procedures and Process Safety Management related requirements as applicable.

  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment.

  • Participate in company and department safety programs.

  • Support production needs by working assigned shifts, overtime, and some weekends as required.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Compensation: $17.50 per hour
Additional Compensation: $1.50 per hour, shift differential
The posted compensation range for this role should reflect the minimum and maximum amount Farmer Focus in good faith expects to pay at the time of posting, based on factors such as internal equity, relevant experience, market data, and the budgeted amount available for the position.
Benefits:
Farmer Focus offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support team members' health, financial well-being, and professional growth. Available offerings may include weekly payroll, paid time off and sick leave, semi-subsidized medical coverage, dental and vision plan options, a 401(k) plan with company match, HSA and FSA, education reimbursement opportunities, employee assistance programs (EAP), and internal learning, development, and career growth programs.
All benefits, programs, and offerings are subject to eligibility requirements, plan terms, and company policies, and may be changed, amended, or discontinued by Farmer Focus at any time.
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.

  • Must have eligibility to work in the United States.

  • Ability to learn and perform general labor duties.

  • Ability to work in a poultry production environment.

  • Ability to work assigned shifts, including overtime and some weekends as required.

  • Ability to follow safety requirements, company policies, and department procedures.

  • Ability to use required personal protective equipment.

  • Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance.

  • Ability to pass SVO pre-employment/post-offer checks.

  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the role with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Related production, manufacturing, food processing, poultry processing, warehouse, or general labor experience.

  • Experience working in a fast-paced production environment.

  • Willingness to work in different production areas based on business needs.

New team members must be able to pass a drug, alcohol and background screening post-offer and prior to the start of their employment. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that verification of employment eligibility be documented for all new employees by the end of their third day of work.
Work Environment, Physical Demands, and Travel
Work is conducted primarily in a manufacturing and poultry production environment. This role may require working with live poultry, raw products, and/or cooked products. Production areas may include wet and moist floors, metal and plastic grating surfaces, and other plant conditions. The team member may be exposed to temperatures ranging from approximately 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, including ambient and high-humidity conditions. The team member may handle product ranging from approximately 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit and may be exposed to noise levels ranging from approximately 50 dB to 110 dB. The team member may also be exposed to dust, feathers, and chemicals used in a poultry and food processing facility. This position may require physical labor, including standing for long periods, walking, bending, kneeling, reaching, climbing ladders, lifting and carrying boxes, tools, equipment, and materials, and performing repetitive production tasks. Hearing and eye protective equipment are required in the production area. Hair and beard nets are required in the production area. Additional personal protective equipment may be required based on task, location, and safety requirements.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This position does not have an application deadline. Farmer Focus will recruit until the role is filled.
Recruiter and Agency Disclaimer
Unsolicited resumes or candidate profiles submitted by staffing agencies, recruiters, or search firms to any Farmer Focus employee without a current written agreement and an active, role-specific request from the Recruiting team will be considered the property of Farmer Focus. Farmer Focus will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume or candidate profile.
All external recruiters and agency partners supporting Farmer Focus searches must comply with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including compensation transparency requirements and restrictions on seeking salary history where applicable.
About Farmer Focus
Farmer Focus exists to promote and protect generational family farms by shifting farm-level decision-making and chicken ownership back to farmers and empowering them to farm the way they know is best. We are committed to producing 100% organic and humanely raised chicken that is better for people, the planet, and animals. Our culture is grounded in servant leadership and guided by our CARES values: Community, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, and Stewardship. Our top priorities are people, safety, and quality. At Farmer Focus, our vision is to disrupt the status quo by creating bold opportunities for people who demand more and deserve better.
EOE, including disability/vets