1

Harvester Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

They will learn how to monitor product flow during harvesting to ensure uninterrupted flow to the plants and relieve Harvester Operators when necessary. Responsibilities: * Responsible for daily ...

The Agriculture Mechanic will monitor product flow during harvesting to ensure uninterrupted flow to the plants and relieve Harvester Operators when necessary. The Ag Mechanic is also responsible for ...

The Agriculture Mechanic will monitor product flow during harvesting to ensure uninterrupted flow to the plants and relieve Harvester Operators when necessary. The Ag Mechanic is also responsible for ...

... harvester, chipper, industrial shredder, grapple skidder, log loader, track chipper, skid steer ... Essential Qualifications: * 2-3 years or more of experience in operating logging or heavy equipment.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Harvester Operator information

See salary details

$5

$18

$19

How much do harvester operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for harvester operator in the United States is $18.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Harvester Operators during peak harvest season?

During peak harvest season, Harvester Operators often face long working hours and physically demanding conditions, sometimes in extreme weather. Equipment malfunctions and the need for quick troubleshooting are common challenges, requiring operators to have a solid understanding of machinery maintenance. Additionally, coordinating with other team members and adapting to changing field conditions can add complexity to the role. Good communication and time-management skills are essential to efficiently meet tight deadlines while ensuring safety and productivity.

What is the difference between Harvester Operator vs Combine Operator?

AspectHarvester OperatorCombine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, training on specific machineryHigh school diploma or equivalent, specialized training on combine harvesters
Work EnvironmentFarms, fields during harvest seasonFarms, fields during harvest season
Industry UsageCommonly used term in agriculture for operating harvest machineryOften used interchangeably with Harvester Operator, specifically referring to combine harvesters

Both roles involve operating harvesting machinery in agricultural settings, primarily during harvest season. While 'Harvester Operator' is a broader term, 'Combine Operator' specifically refers to operating combine harvesters. The skills, credentials, and work environment are very similar, with the main difference being the terminology used in different regions or job postings.

What is the highest paid job in farming?

In farming, the highest paid roles are often farm managers or agricultural executives, who oversee operations and make strategic decisions. These positions typically require extensive experience, management skills, and sometimes advanced degrees, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and profitability of the farm or agricultural business.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Harvester operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive, medical, legal, or specialized financial roles. High-paying jobs often require advanced education, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most roles with this income level are rare and often involve significant responsibility or entrepreneurial success.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

Harvester operators, who operate large agricultural machinery like combine harvesters, can earn higher wages depending on experience, location, and industry demand. In general, specialized machine operators with certifications and extensive experience tend to have the highest salaries in the field.

What does a Harvester Operator do?

A Harvester Operator is responsible for operating machinery designed to harvest crops such as grains, fruits, or timber. Their duties include controlling harvesting equipment, monitoring machinery for proper function, and ensuring crops are collected efficiently and safely. They may also perform basic maintenance on the equipment and assist with loading and transporting the harvested materials. Harvester Operators play a crucial role in the agricultural and forestry industries, helping to ensure a successful and timely harvest.

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

To thrive as a Harvester Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of agricultural practices, and experience operating heavy machinery—often supported by a high school diploma and relevant equipment certifications. Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, onboard computer controls, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong communication help operators work efficiently and safely with team members. These skills ensure optimal machine performance, crop yield, and safety during demanding harvesting seasons.

What is a harvester operator job description?

A harvester operator is responsible for operating machinery used to harvest crops such as grains, fruits, or vegetables. They typically operate equipment like combines, harvesters, or other specialized machinery, often working outdoors during harvest seasons and following safety protocols. The role may require physical stamina, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in equipment operation.
More about Harvester Operator jobs
What states have the most Harvester Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Harvester Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Harvester Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Harvester Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Harvester Operator jobs? For Harvester Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Harvester Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,000 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Agriculture Mechanic Apprentice

Agriculture Mechanic Apprentice

Seneca Foods

Ripon, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Seneca Foods rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 395 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Seneca Foods is one of North America's leading providers of packaged fruits and vegetables with facilities located throughout the United States. Our high quality products are primarily sourced from over 1,400 American farms. Seneca holds the largest share of the retail private label, food service, and export canned vegetable markets, distributing to over 90 countries. Products are also sold under the brands of Libby's®, Aunt Nellie's®, READ®, Seneca Farms®, Green Valley®, Green Giant (Shelf-Stable)®, CherryMan®, Paradise®, Pennant®, and Seneca labels, including Seneca snack chips. Seneca also provides vegetable products to other companies under various co-pack arrangements.
Seneca Foods offers an excellent benefit package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, 401K, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Paid Time Off and more! Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great! Come join the Seneca Foods team - Apply now!
Seneca Foods in Ripon, WI is currently seeking an Agricultural Mechanic Apprentice to join our team. Seneca Foods offers an excellent benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K, paid time off and much more! Help us make our Farm Fresh Goodness Great!
The Agriculture Mechanic Apprentice will complete educational learning through an approved college curriculum, in addition to on-the-job learning to complete their journeyman's certificate. They will learn how to monitor product flow during harvesting to ensure uninterrupted flow to the plants and relieve Harvester Operators when necessary.
Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for daily repair & maintenance of agriculture and related equipment.
  • Responsible for maintaining an even and sufficient flow of raw product from the assigned field that meets or exceeds company standards during harvest season.
  • Work in conjunction with Area Supervisors to maintain harvesting flow and quality.
  • Ensure that safety rules and regulations are followed and enforced.
  • Maintain cost controls over equipment for budget purposes.
  • Strong mechanical and trouble shooting skills.
  • Maintain cost control over equipment for budget purposes
  • Maintenance in other areas of the facility when needed
  • Employee relations
  • Ensure that GMP's (General manufacturing Practices), safety rules and regulations are being followed
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:
  • Willing to enroll in an agricultural mechanics or related technical program
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Good Mechanical repair and trouble shooting skills
  • Willingness and ability to work in a team environment
  • Strong communication skills

Seneca Foods Corporation is committed to providing equal opportunity for all, through a positive and continuing affirmative action program. No employee or applicant will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, military and/or veteran status or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. Seneca Foods Corporation will make reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of otherwise qualified employees and applicants with disabilities unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and feel you need a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact us at ADA@senecafoods.com or call 585-495-4100.

What Seneca Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom