FAQ
Farmworker FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a farmworker.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a farmworker: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about farmworkers
Do farmworkers need experience?
No; training is on the job.
Is farm work seasonal?
Often, depending on crops.
What protections do farmworkers have?
Rules such as the EPA Worker Protection Standard and heat safety rules in some states.
How much does a farmworker make?
The median annual wage for farmworkers was $35,660 ($17.15 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $32,900 and the highest 10% earned more than $45,690.
How long does it take to become a farmworker?
Most people need about Days to weeks of training. No formal education is required. Workers learn on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a farmworker?
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 farmworker a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -2.4% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 72,500 openings each year. Upsides include no experience needed; a common challenge is that physically demanding.
What skills does a farmworker need?
Key technical skills include planting and harvesting, pruning, irrigation, and plant care. Employers also value stamina, reliability, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for farmworkers?
Common credentials include Worker Protection Standard training, Heat illness prevention training, Forklift training, and Food safety training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Farmworker fit quiz, compare with Ranch Hand, or explore Farmworker training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 45-2092 (Farmworkers and laborers, crop, nursery, and greenhouse).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Farmworkers and laborers, crop, nursery, and greenhouse (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.