FAQ
Farm Labor Contractor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a farm labor contractor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a farm labor contractor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about farm labor contractors
Do farm labor contractors need registration?
Yes, with the U.S. Department of Labor.
Is the job growing?
Yes, BLS projects faster than average growth.
What is H-2A?
A visa program for temporary farmworkers.
How much does a farm labor contractor make?
The median annual wage for farm labor contractors was $58,460 ($28.11 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $30,930 and the highest 10% earned more than $84,050.
How long does it take to become a farm labor contractor?
Most people need about Years of farm work experience of training. No formal educational credential is required; experience managing farm work is key.
Do you need a degree to be a farm labor contractor?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is farm labor contractor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +7.4% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 100 openings each year. Upsides include faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that seasonal swings.
What skills does a farm labor contractor need?
Key technical skills include labor law, payroll, crew scheduling, and h-2a rules. Employers also value leadership, communication, and integrity.
What certifications are available for farm labor contractors?
Common credentials include DOL farm labor contractor registration, State FLC license, H-2A program training, and Heat illness training. Farm labor contractors must register with the U.S. Department of Labor, and some states require a license.
Still deciding?
Try the Farm Labor Contractor fit quiz, compare with Ranch Hand, or explore Farm Labor Contractor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-1074 (Farm labor contractors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Farm labor contractors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.