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Farm Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Superior Building Company, LLC

Farmhand

Lascassas, TN

$20 - $25/hr

... HIRING - SHOP / FARM HAND Superior Building Company is seeking a dependable and hardworking ... operating tractors and equipment preferred CDL is a plus, but not required Schedule: Monday ...

Tennessee State University

Farm Worker

Nashville, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Previous experience in a farm or agricultural environment is highly desirable ... Familiarity with operating agricultural machinery and equipment is an asset. * Ability to perform ...

Aviagen Group

Farm Clean Out Associate

Crossville, TN

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

The position requires operating farm equipment, handling cleaning chemicals, and working in various environmental conditions. Applicants are not allowed to own any kind of birds due to the risk of ...

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All JobsFarm Operator JobsFarm Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Farm Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$19

$24

How much do farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm operator in Tennessee is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $21.15 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 Tennessee? For Farm Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Farm Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Farm Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Farm Operator jobs in TN? For Farm Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Farm Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Farm Operator job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,997 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Farming Equipment Operator

Farming Equipment Operator

The Pictsweet Company

Bells, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Pictsweet rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 389 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Overview
The Pictsweet Company is growing! We are currently looking for a dedicated and experienced farm equipment operator to join our team! The position requires flexibility, as you MUST be willing to travel outside of Tennessee for 1-2 months.
Benefits:
  • Benefits begin after required waiting period.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • 401k with Employer Match
  • Group Life Insurance

Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to the following:
  • Operate various field equipment, such as:
    • Lima bean harvester
    • Green bean harvester
    • Tractor
  • Drive a field tractor, pulling a loaded trailer.
  • Operate equipment in a safe manner. Be observant of people in the area, terrain, possible obstacles that might create a safety hazard.
  • Communicate with field reps, Machine Harvest mechanics, general laborers, and other personnel as needed.
  • Work cooperatively with mechanics to maintain equipment in good operating condition.
  • Inform mechanics of problems and issues with equipment.
  • Communicate with field reps on crop condition, progress of cutting and other concerns as needed.
  • Perform manual labor, working as needed on or by harvesting equipment.
  • Miscellaneous farm duties.

Qualifications
Experience:
  • Candidate must demonstrate skill operating sophisticated farm equipment, such as bean harvester and tractors. This is typically acquired by operating complex farm machinery for a minimum of 2 years.
  • Must have a basic understanding of the mechanical operations systems of harvesting equipment (steering, brakes, and hydraulic lifts).
  • Prior experience with Pictsweet harvesters or similar farming equipment strongly preferred.

Cognitive & Psychological:
  • Must have good communication skills.
  • Knowledge of machinery.
  • Able to read and write.

Physical:
  • Must be physically capable of working in extreme temperatures (varies with outdoor weather) and dry, dusty or wet conditions.
  • Must be able to work long hours in a physically demanding environment. Physical demands may be varied, with prolonged periods of standing, bending, pulling, walking, sitting, etc.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to stand, lift, bend, and walk for an extended period.

Other:
  • Must be open to travel, being away from home 1-2 months during harvest season.
  • Must be available to work irregular schedule, seven days/week when harvesting or no work due to slow harvest or bad weather.
  • Must be able to provide own transportation to work-site(s)
  • Must be able to follow basic instructions.
  • Must be willing to work extended hours as needed (including weekends and holidays).

The Pictsweet Company is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/V/H

What Pictsweet employees say

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