Farm hand

• Certificate II in Irrigation

The role of a farm hand involves assisting farmers and graziers with the physical work of growing crops or producing and caring for livestock. The type of work a farm hand may find them self doing in is dependent on the work working environment. Farms specialise in many different areas, these include: Dairy; Poultry; Piggery; Sheep station; Cattle station; Fruit and Vegetable growing.

Not quite the career you are looking for? Please try the related course profiles below:

outdoor

Farm hand,  Horse Trainer,  Aircraft Pilot,  Police Officer,  Travel Consultant (Domestic and International),  Child Care Worker,  Miner,  Mineral Processing Operator,  Viticulturist and Vineyard Hand,  Horticultural Tradesperson (Gardener),  Animal Attendant,  Nursery Worker,  Farmer and Farm Manager,  Livestock Buyer/Livestock Farmers,  Sports Coach,  Aquaculture Farmer and Technician,  Caravan Park/Camping grounds Manager,  Private Investigator,  Landcare Officer,  Telecommunications Technician,  Automotive Electrician,  Ecotourism Guide,  Park Ranger,  Shearer,  Jockey,  Cartographer - Surveyor,  Boilermakers/Welder,  Painters and Decorator,  Environmental Scientist / Environmental Project Officer,  Bricklayer

You can work as a farmhand without formal education qualifications. You may receive informal training on the job. You may also become a farm hand through an apprenticeship.

TAFE SA offer the following courses to help you find employment in this occupation;
Certificate II in Agriculture
Certificate III in Agriculture
Certificate IV in Agriculture
Diploma of Agriculture
Certificate II in Irrigation
Certificate III in Irrigation
Certificate IV in Irrigation
Diploma of Irrigation
Certificate II in Shearing
Certificate II in Wool Handling
Certificate III in Shearing
Certificate III in Advanced Wool Handling
Certificate III in Wool Clip Preparation
Certificate IV in Wool Classing

For more information please follow links to course pages.

For further information on how to obtain a traineeship position, please contact the Traineeships and Apprenticeships Services information line on 1800 673 097.

There are currently a number of changes taking place in the farming sector and because of these, the ability to adapt is critical. Trade skills and animal care are highly desirable but not mandatory.

Farm hands need to be adaptable and versatile as tasks can vary daily and seasonally. Farm hands tasks may include rotating livestock in paddocks, preparing milking machinery and assisting with milking operations, removing the tails of lambs, mustering, drenching, dipping, shearing sheep, clearing away animal waste and hosing out operational areas. You are also likely to be preparing animal food, participate in breeding programmes, controlling pests and weeds, repairing farm buildings, yards and property.

Farm hands need to possess a wide range of skills from the practical ability needed to weld, repair and operate a range of equipment and tending to livestock and crop needs. It is physically demanding and requires long working hours, but can be highly rewarding according to those in the industry.

Much of the work a farm hand does is outdoors and they are often exposed to harsh climatic conditions. The working day starts early in the morning and its fairly usual to work during the weekends. Hours vary and you can be working for as many as 18 hours a day during the busy months. The work can also be hazardous and carries a risk of injury from machinery. For this reason, an awareness of farm safety practices is important and it is essential to be always alert on the job.

The earnings of a farm hand is extremely variable and depend upon the type of farm, level of experience and responsibilities and, perhaps most importantly, the farm's productivity. Starting salaries for farm hands range from around $21 000– $34 000 per year. There may also be other benefits such as free housing, food products and the use of a vehicle.

For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or email tafeinfo@saugov.sa.gov.au