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Grain Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perdue Farms

Seasonal Grain Operator

Modest Town, VA · On-site

$16/hr

Summary As a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across ...

Perdue Farms

Seasonal Grain Operator

Modest Town, VA

$16/hr

Summary As a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across ...

Perdue Farms

Seasonal Grain Operator

Exmore, VA

$16/hr

Summary As a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across ...

Perdue Farms

Seasonal Grain Operator

Exmore, VA · On-site

SummaryAs a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across ...

Perdue Farms

Seasonal Grain Operator

Parksley, VA

SummaryAs a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across ...

Primient

Grain Operator, Darrow

Watseka, IL · On-site

$20.60/hr

Grain Operator, Darrow | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Primient

Grain Operator, Parnell

Farmer City, IL · On-site

$20.60/hr

Grain Operator, Parnell | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Perdue Farms

Grain Operator - 3rd Shift

Mount Joy, PA · On-site

Summary As a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across ...

Primient

Grain Operator, Darrow

Watseka, IL

$20.60/hr

Grain Operator, Darrow | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Primient

Grain Operator, Parnell

Farmer City, IL

$20.60/hr

Grain Operator, Parnell | Primient About Primient Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based ...

Mountaire Farms

Grain Operator - Ridgley MD

Ridgely, MD · On-site

Operates grain‑handling and conveyance equipment to safely move grain to and from storage. This role sets up, adjusts, and monitors semi‑automated equipment; loads and unloads trucks, containers ...

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Grain Operator information

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$15

$18

$22

How much do grain operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for grain operator in the United States is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Grain Operator?

A Grain Operator is responsible for overseeing the handling, storage, and shipment of grain at facilities such as grain elevators, processing plants, or terminals. Their duties include operating machinery to load and unload grain, monitoring grain quality, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Grain Operators play a critical role in the agricultural supply chain by ensuring that grain is stored properly and transported efficiently to prevent spoilage or loss.

What does a grain worker do?

A grain worker operates machinery and equipment to load, unload, and process grains at storage facilities or farms. They inspect and maintain equipment, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may work in shifts to handle large volumes of grain efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by Grain Operators during peak harvest seasons, and how are these typically managed?

During peak harvest seasons, Grain Operators often manage high volumes of incoming grain, which can lead to longer hours and increased physical demands. Common challenges include maintaining equipment efficiency, ensuring the quality and safety of stored grain, and coordinating with truck drivers and farmers to streamline the intake process. To address these challenges, teams typically follow strict maintenance schedules, utilize technology for inventory tracking, and implement clear communication protocols to ensure operations run smoothly and safely.

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

To thrive as a Grain Operator, you need a solid understanding of grain handling procedures, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grain storage systems, conveyor belts, loaders, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for maintaining safe, efficient operations and ensuring the quality and integrity of stored grain.

How much does a grain cart operator make?

A grain cart operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, with some positions offering overtime or seasonal bonuses. Skills in operating large machinery and knowledge of safety protocols are often required.

What is the difference between Grain Operator vs Grain Mill Worker?

AspectGrain OperatorGrain Mill Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, some technical training
Work EnvironmentGrain elevators, storage facilities, processing plantsGrain mills, processing facilities
Employer & IndustryAgriculture, grain storage, and processing companiesFood manufacturing, grain processing industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Grain Operator and a Grain Mill Worker lies in their roles. Grain Operators oversee the operation of grain handling equipment and ensure efficient processing, often working in storage facilities. Grain Mill Workers focus on operating machinery within grain mills to process and package grain products. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but their specific duties and workplaces differ slightly.

What does a grain operator do?

A grain operator manages the loading, unloading, and storage of grain at agricultural or processing facilities. They operate machinery such as conveyors, grain dryers, and trucks, and often perform maintenance and safety checks to ensure efficient handling of grain products.

What is the highest paying farm job?

The highest paying farm jobs often include farm managers, agricultural engineers, and specialized equipment operators such as grain operators, who oversee large-scale operations and handle complex machinery. These roles typically require experience, technical skills, and sometimes certifications, and they can offer higher salaries compared to entry-level farm positions.
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Grain Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grain Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,400 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Seasonal Grain Operator

Seasonal Grain Operator

Perdue Farms

Modest Town, VA • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Perdue Farms rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 397 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Perdue AgriBusiness is an international agricultural products and services company that handles agricultural commodities and a diverse portfolio of products and businesses. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we're committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
Summary
As a Grain Operator, you will play an essential role in keeping our grain operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to work across multiple areas of the operation, supporting the movement, quality, and care of grain from arrival through storage and shipment. You will be part of a collaborative team that values precision, safety, and reliability, contributing directly to the success of our AgriBusiness operations every day.
This position has a base rate of $16 per hour, with opportunities for pay premiums, shift differentials and overtime where applicable. Annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).
Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Operate equipment and maintain facilities involved in the handling, storage and drying of grain and other products.
  • Maintain proper set-up, inspection and calibration of grain testing and weighing equipment per requirements and procedures.
  • Perform routine preventative maintenance on equipment within the facility. Obtain, prepare, test and grade grain samples from inbound and outbound shipments.
  • Respond to customers regarding account information. Provide weighing of inbound and outbound grain shipments per requirements and procedures.
  • Perform all work within the safety and environmental guidelines established by local, state, and federal agencies and company policies.

Minimum Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • 0 -2 years' experience.
  • Reading, writing, math and analytical skills.
  • Basic understanding of standard computer applications

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors
  • Able to move freely throughout the agribusiness facilities including climbing vertical heights (0 -150'), carrying tools and equipment (0-50 lbs.), exposure temperatures (0-100) degrees Fahrenheit, humidity (0-100%), noise (50db to 100db) and chemicals (MSDS sheets available).
  • Must be able to wear protective equipment to include self-contained breathing apparatus.
  • Required to travel to remote agribusiness facilities and customer locations.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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