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Farm Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 - 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 - Day Shift

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Santa Maria, 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 ...

Tric Robotics

Field Operator - Day Shift

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$18/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Pala Band of Mission Indians

Equipment Operator

Pala, CA · On-site

$33/hr

Experience operating multiple pieces of equipment, including D-3 to a D-6 Dozer, Loader, Skid Steer, Excavator, Farm Tractor, Dump Truck, and Water Truck * Able to perform physical activities like ...

GRAPEVINE OPERATING COMPANY LLC

Operator I

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$36.80 - $49.99/hr

The Operator will support current plant operations of utilities and logistics; support maintenance ... Monitor and operate process and utility units, tank farms/logistics utilizing a wide range of ...

Pala Band of Mission Indians

Equipment Operator

Pala, CA · On-site

$33/hr

Experience operating multiple pieces of equipment, including D-3 to a D-6 Dozer, Loader, Skid Steer, Excavator, Farm Tractor, Dump Truck, and Water Truck * Able to perform physical activities like ...

Bee Sweet Citrus

Farm Mechanic Internship

Fowler, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Position Title Farm Mechanic Intern Company Overview Bee Sweet Citrus, Inc. is a grower, packer ... Bee Sweet Citrus Inc. is a family owned and operated company, providing over 10 different varieties ...

Bee Sweet Citrus

Farm Mechanic Internship

Fowler, CA · On-site

Position Title Farm Mechanic Intern Company Overview Bee Sweet Citrus, Inc. is a grower, packer ... Bee Sweet Citrus Inc. is a family owned and operated company, providing over 10 different varieties ...

Joseph Farms

MACHINE OPERATOR I

Atwater, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Joseph Gallo Farms also offers a competitive benefits package at a group rate to all our full-time ... The packaging Machine Operator position sets up and operates a production machine in accordance ...

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All JobsFarm Operator JobsFarm Operator Jobs in California

Farm Operator information

See California salary details

$12

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$26

How much do farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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.

Field Operator - Day Shift

TRIC Robotics

Oxnard, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Location: 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 is passionate about sustainable innovation, loves solving new and exciting problems, is detail-oriented, and works well in a team. In this role, you will be working in a dynamic and highly collaborative startup environment with opportunities to learn new skills in robotics, programming, and hardware development.


Your core responsibilities will be the operation/monitoring of our vehicle-sized robot and in-field data collection several nights per week. Our team will teach you the skills you need to be confident operating the robot and you will have the opportunity to shadow one of our experienced field automation technicians until you are comfortable collecting data and running the platform yourself. All field data will be carefully logged and submitted to our online database. During treatments you will document the robot's progress, check for proper operation, troubleshoot any issues that may prevent a complete treatment, and suggest improvements when possible.


Responsibilities: This position will provide you with an opportunity to be an important part of our growing and enthusiastic company, to work with cutting-edge agricultural technology, and to gain engineering experience with various new technologies in an energetic startup environment.


Expected Work Hours: 10am-6pm 2-3 days a week, based on robot applicability


  • Robot build days
  • Treatments
  • Setup and monitor robot platform on the designated treatment site
  • Log treatment notes
  • Regular team meetings
  • Transportation to and from treatment sites


Skill Requirements:

  • Effective communication, including speaking, writing, listening and following instructions
  • Capable of lifting 50lbs
  • Basic understanding of electrical systems
  • Ability to work efficiently as part of a team
  • Quick troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Strong ambition to help the company grow
  • Passion for sustainable farming and the outdoors


Opportunities:

  • The treatments are at night once every three days, which allows you to pursue and achieve personal goals during the day.
  • The startup environment gives you the opportunity to learn and apply new skills outside the scope of this position.


Experience: No experience needed


Required language: English (verbal and written)


About the company: More chemicals are used on our food today than ever before and in-field resistances are making the chemicals we use obsolete. Using our automated treatment solution, we are revolutionizing the way farmers grow our food by replacing chemicals with ultraviolet light on strawberry farms. Find out more at www.tricrobotics.com