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Volunteer Farm Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Farm Worker

Yountville, CA

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Join Chef Thomas Keller's Yountville Culinary Garden team as a Farm Hand ! We're seeking ... Voluntary plans such as vision, life and AD&D insurance, accident, hospitalization, critical ...

Crop Worker

San Juan Bautista, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

CROP WORKER Location: San Juan Bautista, California Employment Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt Key ... Paid personal and volunteer time off * Monthly fitness reimbursement * Eligible for discretionary ...

CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

CROP WORKER Location: San Juan Bautista, California Employment Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt Key ... Paid personal and volunteer time off * Monthly fitness reimbursement * Eligible for discretionary ...

Current groups include the Gardens & Grounds Landscaping Crew, the Farm & Animal Support Team and ... role in working with our clients. WCS Program Directors directly oversee these volunteers ...

Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, neighbors, families, students, co-workers ... Primrose Farm: Chores/Farm Frolic * Hickory Knolls: Programs and Special Events * Adult Activity ...

Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, neighbors, families, students, co-workers ... Primrose Farm: Chores/Farm Frolic * Hickory Knolls: Programs and Special Events * Adult Activity ...

Intake Worker

Madras, OR · On-site

$17 - $19.71/hr

Works with low income and farm-worker populations in a bilingual setting. Essential Functions: • ... voluntary options available • Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care • ...

... Farm and the Full Plate Project. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with people ... Track volunteer hours and participation to support grants, reporting, and internal metrics

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Volunteer Farm Worker information

See salary details

$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer farm worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer farm worker in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are volunteer farm workers?

Volunteer farm workers are individuals who offer their time and effort to help with various tasks on a farm without receiving regular wages. Their responsibilities can include planting, harvesting, animal care, weeding, and general maintenance. Volunteering on a farm provides hands-on agricultural experience, an opportunity to learn sustainable farming practices, and often includes room and board. Many farms welcome volunteers through programs or organizations, fostering community and cultural exchange. It's an excellent way for people to support local food systems and gain practical skills.

What is the difference between Volunteer Farm Worker vs Farm Hand?

AspectVolunteer Farm WorkerFarm Hand
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials requiredMay require basic farm operation knowledge or certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor farms, often in community or nonprofit settingsCommercial farms, private or corporate settings
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, community farms, volunteer programsFarming companies, agricultural businesses
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking volunteer opportunities or unpaid workIndividuals looking for paid farm work or employment

Volunteer Farm Workers typically engage in unpaid work on farms, often for community service or experience, with minimal credentials required. Farm Hands are paid employees working on commercial farms, sometimes needing basic certifications. The main difference lies in compensation, work setting, and employer type.

What are some common challenges Volunteer Farm Workers face, and how can they prepare for them?

Volunteer Farm Workers often encounter physically demanding tasks such as planting, weeding, and harvesting, sometimes in varying weather conditions. Adapting to outdoor work and learning new agricultural techniques quickly can be challenging, especially for those new to farming. To prepare, it's helpful to maintain a reasonable level of physical fitness, wear appropriate clothing, and approach each task with a willingness to learn from experienced farmers or team leaders. Open communication and teamwork are also essential, as many farms rely on close collaboration to achieve daily goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer Farm Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Farm Worker, you need basic knowledge of agriculture, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn, with no formal qualifications typically required. Familiarity with hand tools, irrigation systems, and basic machinery is useful, though most skills are learned on the job. Reliability, teamwork, and a positive attitude help volunteers adapt to varying tasks and work effectively with others. These abilities ensure safe, productive contributions to farm operations and foster a supportive working environment.

Is it possible to get into farming with no experience?

Volunteer farm worker positions often do not require prior experience, making them accessible for beginners. These roles typically involve hands-on tasks such as planting, harvesting, and maintaining crops, and may provide on-the-job training. Developing basic knowledge of farming tools and safety procedures can improve your chances of starting in this field.

Can I earn money by volunteering?

Volunteer farm workers typically do not earn money for their work, as volunteering is unpaid. However, some programs may offer stipends, housing, or other benefits in exchange for work, but these are not considered wages. It is important to clarify the terms before participating in any volunteer position.

Where are volunteers needed the most?

Volunteer farm workers are most needed in regions with active agricultural sectors, especially during planting and harvest seasons. Areas experiencing labor shortages or with large farms often seek volunteers to assist with planting, harvesting, and farm maintenance tasks, which may require basic physical fitness and knowledge of farming tools and safety protocols.

How can I volunteer at a local farm?

To volunteer as a farm worker, contact local farms directly or check community bulletin boards and farm websites for volunteer opportunities. Many farms require volunteers to commit to specific schedules and may ask for basic skills or training in farming tasks. Some programs also offer certifications or training for volunteers interested in agricultural work.
More about Volunteer Farm Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Volunteer Farm Worker jobs? Cities with the most Volunteer Farm Worker job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Farm Worker jobs? The most popular types of Farm Worker jobs are:
What states have the most Volunteer Farm Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Volunteer Farm Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Volunteer Farm Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Volunteer Farm Worker jobs are:
Infographic showing various Volunteer Farm Worker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Join Chef Thomas Keller’s Yountville Culinary Garden team as a Farm Hand! We’re seeking enthusiastic individuals to work under the guidance of our Garden and Estate Managers.Your responsibilities will include planting, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting, all to ensure our culinary gardens flourish. Embrace the opportunity to contribute to the magic of The French Laundry in Yountville, CA.
This is a seasonal position aligned with our growing and harvest cycles, with the potential for continued or permanent employment based on performance and business needs.

This position is primarily outdoors, exposing individuals to various weather elements. Candidates must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical work in diverse positions and heights, including bending, stooping, reaching, and twisting. The role also requires standing for up to 8 hours and operating light and heavy machinery, such as a tractor.
Responsibilities:

  • Maintain and develop the pristine aesthetic of the garden plots, projecting an organized and positive image.
  • Ensure all guests to the garden feel welcome, receiving responsive, professional, and gracious service at all times.
  • Support the Manager by providing timely updates on available produce and forecasting future harvests.
  • Maintain all equipment, tools, and storage areas with an emphasis on efficiency, organization, and cleanliness, in line with the Restaurant’s and Chef Thomas Keller’s philosophy, mission statement, and standards of excellence.
  • Assist in the identification and maintenance of a seasonal rotation of culinary plantings to benefit the restaurants, understanding planting cycles to supply the restaurants appropriately throughout the season.
  • Keep detailed records of soils, plantings, conditions, and harvesting, including the quantity and quality of produce, as directed.

Qualifications:
  • 2 years of experience in manual labor and/or farming.
  • High School Diploma required; Certified Master Gardener preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly and concisely.
  • Ability to work in varying weather conditions (extreme heat, wet, cold, etc.).
  • Capable of reaching, bending, stooping, and frequently lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work 50–60 hours per week.
  • Proficient in operating light and heavy machinery, such as a tractor.
  • Ability to work in a standing position for extended periods (up to 10 hours).

Chef Keller’s collection of restaurants is founded on a culture of mentorship and provides a solid foundation of skills to support our profession. We are proud to offer:

  • 401K plan with matching contributions up to 4% of earnings and no waiting periods.
  • Company-sponsored medical and dental plans*
  • Voluntary plans such as vision, life and AD&D insurance, accident, hospitalization, critical illness plans, pet insurance and long-term disability insurance.
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement
  • Daily family meal
  • Scholarship programs
  • Peer mentorship program
  • Employee discounts at Chef Thomas Keller’s casual properties
  • Gym membership discount

Who we are:

With more than 10 properties and 800 employees, the Thomas Keller Restaurant Group (TKRG) has grown from one restaurant to a large family of businesses.

TKRG proudly represents The French Laundry, Per Se, The Surf Club Restaurant, Bouchon Bistro, Bouchon Bakery, Ad Hoc, and RO Restaurant & Lounge. The properties and people Chef Keller inspires are known for setting new standards in cuisine, service and employment experiences. Our goal is to collaborate with talented restaurant professionals and offer opportunities to learn and grow within the hospitality profession. As we have expanded over time, the expectations that set apart our restaurants have not changed: ensuring that every guest feels special, and every guest experience is exceptional. A guest can walk into The French Laundry or one of the Bouchon Bakeries and have the most enjoyable, unique and memorable experience. A chef will find the same blue aprons and green tape in each of our kitchens—symbols of a common striving for excellence. Outside the kitchens, every action we take must reflect the generosity, nurturing and finesse within. As members of the TKRG family, we have the responsibility to ensure this consistency. Beyond it all is a mission, perhaps summed up best by Chef Keller himself. “To make people happy, one guest at a time,” he says. “That is what cooking is all about.”

Looking for other opportunities with our group? Check out open positions on: ThomasKeller.com/careers

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

*Company contribution depends on your plan selection. Benefit offerings are subject to change over time.  

More detail about The French Laundry part of Thomas Keller, please visit https://culinaryagents.com/entities/455-The-French-Laundry