The role
What a farmworker actually does, day to day.
The work varies hugely with the season - planting and harvesting crops, feeding and caring for animals, driving tractors, mending fences and keeping the farm running. Physical fitness, reliability and a willingness to work in all weathers matter, along with picking up practical skills with machinery and livestock.
Hours are long and seasonal, often starting at dawn and including weekends, especially at harvest or lambing time, and pay commonly starts around the minimum or agricultural wage. The work is physically demanding and weather-dependent, but rewarding for people who love the outdoors and rural life.
Many people start with no qualifications and learn on the job, while agricultural apprenticeships and college courses can speed things up. A driving or tractor licence is often useful, and experience can lead to skilled roles or farm management.
Day to day
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