Career roadmap
How to Become a Farm Labor Contractor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a farm labor contractor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a farm labor contractor: (1) work on farm crews, (2) become a crew leader, (3) learn labor laws, (4) register with DOL, (5) start contracting. Most people need about Years of farm work experience. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a farm labor contractor
Work on farm crews
Experience.
Become a crew leader
Lead.
Learn labor laws
Compliance.
Register with DOL
Required.
Start contracting
Business.
Education and training requirements
No formal educational credential is required; experience managing farm work is key.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Years of farm work experience |
Certifications and licenses
- DOL farm labor contractor registration: Federal requirement.
- State FLC license: Required in some states.
- H-2A program training: Visa workers.
- Heat illness training: Required in some states.
Skills to build now
Start with labor law, payroll, and crew scheduling, and practice leadership and communication. Learning the farm labor contractor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Farmworker: Entry.
- Crew Leader: Lead.
- Farm Labor Contractor: Run crews.
- Labor Services Company Owner: Grow.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Farm Labor Contractor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
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.
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.