Farm Worker

Job overview
Farm workers do the basic work on a farm.

They work under the supervision of the farmer, manager or the farm foreman.

What do people do in this job?
The nature of the work varies according to the type of farming such as crop farming, livestock farming, fruit and vegetable farming.

On most farms some form of mixed farming is usually practised.

Farm workers?' ?responsibilities can vary from elementary tasks like ploughing, planting seedlings, cultivation, pruning, irrigation, fertilisation and the control of plant diseases'.

More advanced tasks include basic maintenance and handling of tractors, farm implements and other equipment, as well as the construction and maintenance of farm buildings and fences.

After harvesting, the products must be sorted, packed and transported to the agricultural co-operative.

On a livestock farm the workers are involved in caring for the animals and the control of illnesses.

They must have a basic knowledge of the production of meat, dairy products and wool, as well as of stud farming and dipping and marking animals.

The more experienced farm workers can assist the farm foreman in the training of new workers.

What kinds of people are suitable for this occupation?
Farm workers should be physically fit, interested in nature and like to work with animals.

Getting on with other people is important because farm workers often work in a team.

A practical ability and mechanical insight are necessary to work with the farming machinery and equipment.

What qualifications are needed?
There are no specific qualifications.