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Small Farm Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Small Farm information

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How much do small farm jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for small farm in Iowa is $17.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the small farm position, and why are they important?

To thrive in managing or working on a small farm, you need hands-on knowledge of crop cultivation, animal husbandry, basic machinery operation, and general farm management, often gained through experience or agricultural training. Familiarity with tools such as tractors, irrigation systems, soil testing kits, and sometimes certifications in pesticide application can be valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for navigating the unpredictable nature of farming and working with seasonal help or vendors. These skills are critical for ensuring efficient operations, productivity, and the long-term sustainability of a small farm business.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working on a small farm?

Daily tasks on a small farm often include planting, watering, and harvesting crops, feeding and caring for animals, maintaining equipment, and monitoring the health of plants and livestock. You may also be responsible for repairing fences, managing irrigation systems, and keeping accurate records of production and expenses. Depending on the season and type of farm, work can vary greatly day-to-day, requiring flexibility and a willingness to learn new skills. Collaboration with other farm workers, vendors, and sometimes customers at farmers' markets or CSA programs is common. This variety makes the role both challenging and rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on, outdoor work in a dynamic environment.

What is a small farm?

A Small Farm job involves working on a small-scale agricultural operation, often focusing on sustainable and diversified farming practices. Responsibilities may include planting, harvesting, tending to livestock, maintaining equipment, and selling produce at markets. Workers may be involved in organic farming, permaculture, or other specialized agricultural methods. These roles require physical stamina, a strong work ethic, and a passion for farming. Small farms often emphasize community engagement, local food production, and environmental stewardship.

What are popular job titles related to Small Farm jobs in Iowa? For Small Farm jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Small Farm jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Small Farm jobs in Iowa are:
Small Farm jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Farm job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,238 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator

Key Cooperative

Roland, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Key Cooperative is a member-owned, rural Iowa cooperative serving agriculture producers. With locations in 13 communities and 6 counties. Key Cooperative provides Agronomy, Energy, Feed and Grain with a small-town, yet professional feel. Our employees take pride in our identity and they're committed to the success of our owners by delivering innovation, leadership and performance. If you're looking for a place where you can grow and be proud of what you do each day - you can find this kind of career at Key Cooperative.
We are currently hiring for the position of Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator to join our team in our NW region (Story Co. & surrounding counties). In this role you will be operating farm equipment such as a sprayer or floater performing custom application for our farming member owners and customers.
We offer competitive compensation along with a full benefit package including development opportunities, health, vision and dental insurance along with two retirement plans - 401(k) and pension. We also offer an amazing family work environment where we all share the passion for agriculture and our member owners and customers.
This role is for you if you have:
  • High school diploma along with experience operating farm and/or heavy equipment.
  • CDL, Applicator's licenses, or willingness/ability to obtain both.
  • Ability to work longer hours during peak seasons.
  • An outstanding work ethic with ability to pay attention to the details.
  • Ability to always project a positive attitude to customers and employees while exhibiting good customer relations skills.

What you will be doing:
  • Operate sprayer equipment to accurately apply fertilizer and chemicals to customer crops.
  • Precisely blends and custom applies fertilizers and agricultural chemicals based on recommendations and label directions.
  • Loads and unloads outbound and inbound inventory.
  • Maintains facility and equipment so that they have a good appearance and are always in working order; performs light maintenance work on selected vehicles.
  • Completes all assigned tasks according to work order estimates and their daily work schedule
  • Keeps facility, safety, equipment, and application records as required.
  • Keeps the Location Manager informed of product inventory levels that could restrict application or delivery schedules, and any other operational issues that may arise.
  • Promotes the business with existing and potential customers.
  • Implements, promotes, and supports all Key Cooperative programs.
  • Assists in keeping all inside and outside work areas extremely neat and orderly.

Apply