Top 10 Farm Jobs in Canada 2023 (Part 1)

Are you looking for new opportunities in Canada? We have compiled a list of 10 possible agricultural jobs in Canada in 2023. These jobs are listed on the Canada Jobbank and are open to expatriate workers, allowing immigrants to earn additional points in the Canadian immigration Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Whether you have a background in agriculture or are looking to start a new career, there’s a recommended job for everyone on this list. So don’t wait; check out our selection of farm jobs and take the first step to start a new life in Canada.

Use this tool to calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

What Does a Farm Job in Canada entail?

Farm work in Canada refers to employment opportunities on farms, ranches and other agricultural businesses in Canada. These jobs include a variety of tasks, such as tending livestock, planting and harvesting crops, operating farm machinery, and general farm maintenance. Some agricultural operations may also include managing the business aspects, such as budgeting, marketing, and sales. Farm work can be found in rural areas across Canada and can be seasonal or year-round.

Who Can Work on a Farm in Canada?

Generally, anyone who can legally work in Canada can work on a Canadian farm. This list includes Canadian citizens, permanent residents and foreign workers with valid work permits. Some farming jobs may require specific skills or qualifications, such as previous farming experience or the ability to operate specific machinery. Reviewing the job requirements carefully before applying for a farm job in Canada is essential. 

To work on a farm, you may need to meet the following criteria:

1. Work authorization: To legally work in Canada, you must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a foreign worker with an up-to-date work permit.
2. Age: While some jobs may have higher age requirements, most farm jobs in Canada require that you’re at least 16 years old.
3. Physical fitness: Good physical health is a must because many farm jobs entail manual labour, which can be physically taxing. You must be in excellent physical condition to move big goods, stand for extended periods, and work in various weather situations.
4. Education: Some farm employment could demand a high school diploma or its equivalent, but others might not. Before applying, it is crucial to understand the employment criteria carefully.
5. Skills and experience: Depending on the position, you might need specialized training or expertise, such as familiarity with farming methods or proficiency with farm equipment.
6. Language ability: As Canada’s two official languages, English and French, many farm professions require at least rudimentary proficiency in one of these languages.

Additional Requirements for Farmwork in Canada

Depending on the specific job and the farm’s location, there may be other requirements to work on a farm in Canada. Some additional job requirements include the following:

1. Safety education: Some farm jobs may require classes like first aid and WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System).
2. Transportation: You may need your vehicle to get to and from the farm. Many Canadian farms are located in rural areas with limited access to transportation.
3. Accommodation: You might be lucky to find a farm that provides housing for their workers, while others may expect you to arrange your accommodation. It is crucial to clarify with the employer before accepting the job offer.
4. Flexibility: Working irregular hours, such as early mornings, late nights, and weekends, is common in many farm jobs. You would do well to be ready to work as flexibly as necessary.
5. Drug test: As a condition of employment, you might have to pass a drug test at some farms.

Before applying for a Canadian farm job, it is essential to review the requirements carefully. It would be helpful if you did this to ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements. Let’s now take a look at some of the possible careers on a farm in Canada.

2023 List of Top 10 Farm Jobs in Canada

Just as there are numerous job listings on the Canada Job Bank, there are also several farm jobs available in Canada for foreigners. However, these are some of 2023 most popular farm positions:

#1. Farm Managers

Farmworker supervisors supervise and direct farm workers’ crop or livestock activities. They may be involved in tasks like scheduling work, assigning tasks to employees, training new employees, monitoring employee work to ensure that it is performed safely and efficiently, and keeping records and reports relating to work performed. 

The average salary for a farm manager in Canada is about $20 an hour. However, wages may vary depending on factors such as type of farm, location of the farm, personal experience and level of education. 

To apply for jobs in farm labour supervision in Canada, you can search on job search websites such as Indeed or Workopolis. You can also contact the farm directly to inquire about potential vacancies or send a resume and cover letter to indicate your interest in the position. Connecting with people in your industry, such as through professional associations and events, can also be a valuable way to find employment opportunities.

#2. Tractor Operator

Are you an experienced tractor driver looking for career opportunities in Canada? Look no further! According to research, the average salary for Canadian tractor drivers is around $20 an hour. However, wages can vary depending on various factors, such as the farm type, location, and the individual’s experience and level of education. 

Searching for job openings on job search websites like Indeed or Workopolis is a great place to begin if you are interested in applying for positions as a tractor operator in Canada. You can also contact farms directly to find out if they have any open positions and send them your resume and cover letter to show your interest. Remember to reach out to people in the industry as well. Joining professional associations or going to events in the industry can be great ways to find out about job openings and meet people in the field. Additionally, a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a must if you intend to operate specific farm equipment.

#3. Livestock Worker

Livestock workers in Canada care for and maintain animals kept on farms, ranches and other agricultural establishments. This may include feeding and watering animals, providing medical care, and cleaning and caring for living quarters. 

Salary salaries for livestock workers in Canada can vary depending on their specific job responsibilities and employer. According to the Job Bank, the average hourly wage for livestock workers in Canada is about $15.

The Canadian government has several immigration programs that temporarily allow foreign workers to work in Canada, and some of these programs may apply to livestock keepers. For example, temporary foreign worker programs enable employers in specific industries, including agriculture, to hire foreign workers to fill labour shortages. To participate in this program, you must meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements and have a valid Canadian job offer. 

Canada’s immigration laws and policies can change over time, so it’s essential to stay up to date and consult a qualified immigration attorney or immigration officer to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.

#4. Dairy Farmer

Dairy farmers manage and operate farms producing and processing milk and dairy products. Their primary tasks may include milking cows, feeding and caring for animals, and maintaining equipment and facilities. Dairy farmers can also engage in the marketing and sale of milk and other dairy products. 

Dairy farm salaries in Canada can vary depending on the size and scale of the job, the specific job description and the employer. According to the Job Bank, the average hourly wage for dairy farmers in Canada is about $22.  

#5. Greenhouse Worker

Greenhouse workers in Canada are responsible for growing and tending plants in indoor or outdoor greenhouses. Their daily tasks may include planting, watering, pruning, applying fertilizers and pesticides, and monitoring temperature, humidity and other environmental conditions in the greenhouse. Greenhouse workers may also collect, pack, and transport plants and products. 

Salaries for greenhouse workers in Canada can vary by job description and employer. According to the Government Bank of Canada, the average hourly wage for greenhouse workers in Canada is about $15.

There are several ways to find jobs for greenhouse workers in Canada. One option is to look for jobs on websites such as Indeed or Monster or contact local agricultural organizations or greenhouses in your area.