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Farm Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Farm Hand / Equipment Operator Sackett Potatoes Location: Mecosta & Greenville, Michigan Job Type: Full-Time About Sackett Potatoes Sackett Potatoes is a family-owned potato farming operation ...

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Farm Hand / Equipment Operator Sackett Potatoes Location: Mecosta & Greenville, Michigan Job Type: Full-Time About Sackett Potatoes Sackett Potatoes is a family-owned potato farming operation ...

Be Seen First

Farm Hand / Equipment Operator Sackett Potatoes Location: Mecosta & Greenville, Michigan Job Type: Full-Time About Sackett Potatoes Sackett Potatoes is a family-owned potato farming operation ...

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Farm Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm operator in Michigan is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $20.34 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 job categories do people searching Farm Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Farm Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Farm Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Farm Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Farm Operator jobs in MI? For Farm Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Farm Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,409 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Farm Hand - Equipment Operator- Willing To Train

Farm Hand - Equipment Operator- Willing To Train

Sackett potatoes

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

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Job description

Farm Hand / Equipment Operator

Sackett Potatoes
Location: Mecosta & Greenville, Michigan
Job Type: Full-Time

About Sackett Potatoes

Sackett Potatoes is a family-owned potato farming operation dedicated to producing high-quality crops through hard work, teamwork, and modern farming practices. We are seeking a dependable Farm Hand / Equipment Operator to join our team. This is a hands-on position that supports all aspects of potato production, from planting and harvesting to storage operations and general farm maintenance.

Position Summary

The Farm Hand / Equipment Operator will operate agricultural equipment, assist with potato harvesting and storage, and perform a variety of farm duties throughout the growing season.

Responsibilities

  • Operate tractors, loaders, forklifts, and other agricultural equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Assist with harvesting, and transporting potatoes.
  • Load, unload, sort, and store potatoes in storage facilities while maintaining quality standards.
  • Perform equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and report mechanical issues.
  • Assist with other seasonal farming activities.
  • Help maintain farm buildings, storage facilities, and work areas.
  • Follow all farm safety procedures and equipment operating guidelines..
  • Perform additional farm duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Previous farm, agricultural, equipment operation, or heavy machinery experience preferred.
  • Experience operating tractors, loaders, forklifts, or other agricultural equipment is a plus.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment maintenance preferred.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding work.
  • Dependable with a strong work ethic and positive attitude.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Valid driver's license required.

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Full-time, year-round employment
  • Stable employment with a respected agricultural operation
  • Opportunity to work with modern farming equipment
  • Supportive, team-oriented work environment

If you enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and being part of a team that helps produce one of Michigan's most important agricultural crops, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today to join Sackett Potatoes!

Company Description

The employees at Sackett Potatoes are a valuable asset. Without their dedication and hard work, it would be impossible to harvest a quality crop. We offer both full time and seasonal employment. We are always looking to hire employees with a great work ethic, who are willing to work hard and grow within our business. ''Our Business is Growing"