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Farm Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 - 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Farm Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$20

$26

How much do farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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 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.

How to become a farm operator?

To become a farm operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in farming or agriculture. Gaining skills in equipment operation, crop management, and animal care is important, and some may pursue postsecondary education or certifications in agriculture to enhance job prospects.

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 46% Full Time, 52% 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 Internship - Permanent Plantings

Investment Farms

Chico, CA • On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Internship

Medical

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Deseret Farms of California is now offering farm internships!
Summary:
The Farm Intern provides support through technical expertise, project management, data analysis, and other essential tasks needed during the corresponding season. Interns work closely with management to further the objectives of the farm and is expected to learn through making significant contributions to the farming operations. Interns will be exposed to experiences and opportunities to help them learn, grow, and succeed.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist with data collection, interpretation, and reporting for on-farm trials, observation plots, and field studies.
  • Support land preparation activities such as tree removal, ripping, disking, and fumigation.
  • Scout orchards and/or fields for pests and overall crop health; submit timely, well-written reports.
  • Work alongside managers, agronomists, and labor teams to complete daily assignments and seasonal projects.
  • Participate actively in training, meetings, and group discussions; contribute ideas when appropriate.
  • Follow instructions from supervisors carefully to ensure accurate and effective task execution.
  • Demonstrate initiative by asking questions, solving problems, and staying engaged throughout the internship.
  • Learn and adapt to the company's culture, values, and operational expectations.
  • Promote a positive, team-oriented attitude that supports company goals and encourages others.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of vehicles, UTVs, workspaces, and digital tools.
  • Comply with all safety protocols, including PPE use, Good Agricultural Practices, and food safety programs.
  • Assist with safety documentation and notify supervisors immediately of any safety concerns.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Supply Chain, or a related field sophomore level or higher.
  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record; able to safely operate vehicles, UTVs, and farm equipment.
  • Basic understanding of agronomic principles, especially as they relate to fruit and nut production.
  • Experience operating tractors, implements, and using GPS/GIS systems is preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications; familiarity with digital tools and data systems is a plus.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a proactive attitude with strong attention to detail. Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills.

Working conditions:
*The physical demands below describe what is generally required to perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. • Frequently lift, carry, move, and position materials, tools, supplies, or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. • Perform work that involves standing, walking, climbing, and moving throughout fields, facilities, and work sites for extended periods. • Regularly operate, control, and handle tools, machinery, equipment, and controls using hands and fingers, requiring sustained manual dexterity. • Frequently position self to access, service, or maintain equipment and materials, including reaching, ascending or descending, balancing, kneeling, stooping, crouching, and crawling. • Communicate clearly to get and share information and report problems or safety issues. • Have adequate vision to safely perform work, including near and distance vision, color differentiation, depth perception, peripheral awareness, and the ability to adjust focus as needed.
* The work environment below describes conditions the employee may encounter while performing this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made when appropriate. • Frequently work in outdoor agricultural environments with exposure to varying temperatures, sunlight, wind, and changing weather conditions. • Regularly work around agricultural machinery, vehicles, tools, and moving mechanical components. • May be exposed to airborne particles such as dust, soil, pollen, and plant materials. • Occasional work on uneven, muddy, slippery, or elevated surfaces, with potential exposure to vibration or electrical hazards. • May come into contact with chemical substances, including fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and fuels, in accordance with safety procedures and training. • Noise levels may range from moderate to loud, depending on equipment operation and task being performed. • Work hours may vary due to operational needs and may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, extended shifts, or seasonal demands. • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, protective footwear, hearing protection, and respirators, will be provided as required by law and company policy. Employees are required to properly use designated PPE when tasks require it.
AgReserves, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Qualified applicants must be legally and lawfully authorized to be employed and work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship - AgReserves, Inc is not sponsoring visas at this time. AgReserves, Inc. complies with the current state minimum wage laws for all positions, regardless of the pay ranges posted. Compensation offered correlates to the current student classification or graduation status.
Additional Benefits may also include: Medical Insurance coverage, Relocation Assistance, Temporary housing

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