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Farm Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hog Island Oyster Co

Farm Crew

Marshall, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Hog Island Farm Crew treats each other with respect, working hard in all conditions with a smile ... Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks such as operating dangerous equipment ...

Hog Island Oyster Company Inc

Farm Crew

Marshall, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Hog Island Farm Crew Mission Statement: Hog Island Farm Crew treats each other with respect ... Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks such as operating dangerous equipment ...

Hog Island Oyster Company Inc

Farm Crew

Marshall, CA

$22 - $25/hr

Hog Island Farm Crew treats each other with respect, working hard in all conditions with a smile ... Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks such as operating dangerous equipment ...

Foster Farms

Production Operator

Compton, CA · On-site

$19.91/hr

Description Pay Rate $19.91 per hour + $.50 shift premium 2nd shift At Foster Farms, our mission is ... We are hiring Production Operators to support our food manufacturing operations. This role involves ...

Foster Farms

Production Operator

Compton, CA · On-site

$19.91/hr

Description Pay Rate $19.91 per hour + $.50 shift premium 2nd shift At Foster Farms, our mission is ... We are hiring Production Operators to support our food manufacturing operations. This role involves ...

Foster Farms

Production Operator

Compton, CA · On-site

$19.91/hr

Pay Rate $19.91 per hour + $.50 shift premium 2nd shift At Foster Farms, our mission is creating ... We are hiring Production Operators to support our food manufacturing operations. This role involves ...

Foster Farms

Production Operator

Compton, CA · On-site

$19.91/hr

Pay Rate $19.91 per hour + $.50 shift premium 2nd shift At Foster Farms, our mission is creating ... We are hiring Production Operators to support our food manufacturing operations. This role involves ...

TRIC Robotics

Field Operator - Oxnard

Oxnard, CA · On-site

Oxnard, CA (Our office is located in Santa Maria) As the Robot Field Operator, you will work with cutting-edge technology and play an important role as we expand to farms across California's Central ...

Produce Careers Inc.

Sales Consultant

Oxnard, CA · On-site

Build and manage relationships with growers, farm operators, and agricultural decision makers. * Identify and develop new sales opportunities through your network and outbound efforts. * Conduct in ...

TRIC Robotics

Field Operator - Day Shift

Oxnard, CA · On-site

Oxnard, CA As the Robot Field Operator, you will work with cutting-edge technology and play an important role as we expand to farms across California's Central Coast. We are looking for someone who ...

Tric Robotics

Field Operator - Oxnard

Oxnard, CA

Oxnard, CA (Our office is located in Santa Maria) As the Robot Field Operator, you will work with cutting-edge technology and play an important role as we expand to farms across California's Central ...

Tric Robotics

Field Operator - Oxnard

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Oxnard, CA (Our office is located in Santa Maria) As the Robot Field Operator, you will work with cutting-edge technology and play an important role as we expand to farms across California's Central ...

TRIC Robotics

Field Operator - Oxnard

Oxnard, CA · On-site

Oxnard, CA (Our office is located in Santa Maria) As the Robot Field Operator, you will work with cutting-edge technology and play an important role as we expand to farms across California's Central ...

Perdue Farms

Machine Operator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22.90/hr

It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply ... As a Machine Operator, you'll maintain, service, and perform repairs on production equipment and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFarm Operator JobsFarm Operator Jobs in California

Farm Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$20

$26

How much do farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm operator in California is $20.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Farm Operator vs Farmhand?

AspectFarm OperatorFarmhand
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma, farm equipment certificationsTypically high school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOperate machinery, manage farm activitiesAssist with daily farm tasks, manual labor
Employer & Industry UsageFarm operators are responsible for overall farm managementFarmhands support farm operations under supervision

Farm Operators oversee farm activities and machinery, often managing staff and resources, while Farmhands perform manual labor and assist with daily tasks. Both roles are essential in farm operations, but Farm Operators have more responsibility and may require specific certifications.

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

To thrive as a Farm Operator, you need a solid understanding of agricultural practices, crop and livestock management, and basic business principles, often supported by experience or an agriculture-related degree. Familiarity with farm machinery, irrigation systems, and agricultural software is typically required, and certifications in pesticide application or equipment operation can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, organization, and leadership skills set outstanding farm operators apart, especially when managing teams and adapting to changing conditions. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure efficient farm operations, maximize productivity, and maintain sustainability in a dynamic agricultural environment.

What does a farm operator do?

A Farm Operator is responsible for managing the daily operations of a farm, which may include planting, cultivating, harvesting crops, and raising livestock. They oversee the maintenance of equipment, management of farm workers, and ensure compliance with safety and agricultural regulations. Farm Operators also handle budgeting, marketing, and often make decisions on crop rotation, pest control, and resource management to maximize productivity and profitability.

What are some common challenges faced by farm operators when managing both crops and livestock, and how can they be addressed?

Farm Operators who manage both crops and livestock often face the challenge of balancing time and resources between these two demanding areas. Seasonal workloads can fluctuate significantly, requiring careful planning to ensure that planting, harvesting, and animal care are all properly attended to. Additionally, biosecurity and disease management become more complex when livestock and crops coexist. Effective communication with team members, the use of farm management software, and ongoing training in best practices can help address these challenges and improve overall efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Farm Operator jobs in California?

For Farm Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Farm Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Farm Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Farm Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Farm Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Farm Operator jobs in CA?

For Farm Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Farm Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Farm Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 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.

Farm Crew

Hog Island Oyster Co

Marshall, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Hog Island Farm Crew Mission Statement:
Hog Island Farm Crew treats each other with respect, working hard in all conditions with a smile. We utilize communication, organization, efficiency and knowledge to create a high quality product. We work in a team as stewards of Tomales Bay, an ever-changing environment. We stay adaptable and keep each other accountable.
Summary:
The Farm Crew Worker is responsible for aiding the Farm Manager, Grow Supervisor, & the Harvest Supervisor. Specifically, the Farm Crew Worker is responsible for assisting with the day-to-day duties for all aspects of oyster harvesting, planting, and husbandry. A strong applicant should be enthusiastic with labor intensive work, repetitive tasks, working outdoors/on the bay in all weather conditions, and detail oriented. This is an entry level position for an individual who is excited about pursuing a career in aquaculture.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Oyster Harvesting
  • Oyster Sorting by Hand
  • Oyster Seed Planting and Husbandry
  • Oyster Gear Maintenance (repairing various gear types such as bags, racks, tipping bags)
  • Operate small and heavy medium machinery such as forklifts, tractors, trucks and boats.
  • Assist with environmental clean-up; must be compliant with all regulations.
  • Equipment maintenance, which includes cleaning of equipment.
  • Keep work spaces clean and organized

Additional Duties:
  • Communicate via email and/or verbally with other employees, managers, and guests in English.
  • Abide by the Hog Island Company rules, policies, and procedures, including safety trainings and meetings, as defined in the Employee Handbook.
  • Report to work in a timely manner and in accordance with the defined schedule.

Requirements
Measurements of Success:
  • Communication is clear and prompt
  • Learned efficiency in all tasks; work is both quick and correct, with quality in mind
  • Provide timely support to other departments
  • Maintain an exceptional record of punctuality and attendance

Qualifications:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. In addition, the individual must be punctual, have a good attendance record, and have reliable means of transportation to work.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Ability to work in an outdoor marine environment
  • Swimming proficiency
  • Must be a cultural fit
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Likes having fun
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule (occasional overtime & weekends; start time each day can vary with the tide)
  • Detail oriented
  • Strong communication skills
  • Strong critical thinking skills

Preferred Education and Experience:
  • Previous oyster aquaculture or general aquaculture experience
  • Knowledgeable in Hog Island's growing techniques, motivated to learn
  • Ability to effectively operate a forklift
  • Ability to effectively operate power tools
  • Boat handling experience

Physical Demands
The Farm Crew Worker is a physically demanding job which includes the lifting in excess of 50 lbs.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is required to:
  • Regularly stand, walk, and use hands and arms to perform tasks such as handling, feeling, and reaching. This involves continuous physical activity and manual coordination to effectively manage responsibilities.
  • Regularly talk and listen up to 8 hours a day.
  • Regularly walk on uneven surfaces.
  • Repeatedly and safely lift and/or move items heavier than fifty (50) pounds.
  • Regularly walk in mudflats carrying items heavier than fifty (50) pounds.

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The noise level in the work environment is high.
  • The work environment entails a fast paced, frequently changing environment in which interruptions are considered normal.
  • Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks such as operating dangerous equipment or working with chemicals.
  • Work involves minimal exposure to unusual elements such as mild to hot temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
  • Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm may be present in the work site environment.

We value thoughtful communication and attention to detail - Please include a cover letter and professional references with your application. Applications missing required materials will not be reviewed.
Salary Description
$22/hr - $25/hr DOE

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