Are you looking for a lifestyle change as well as a career change? Working as a farm hand can be physically demanding but very rewarding. If you enjoy working outdoors or with animals, but have minimal experience, then this could be the job for you.
Typical Jobs
-
looking after animals
-
handyman work
-
checking feed and water
-
cleaning paddocks
-
cleaning stables, barns,sheds, stock yards
-
repairing fences
-
weed control
-
driving machinery (ploughing, etc.)
Remuneration and Advancement Opportunities
As this is a start level job, the remuneration can be quite low. It will vary however, depending on the size of the farm and responsibilities involved in the job. On larger farms there is room for advancement eg. Herd Manager. This would require some experience in the field and possibly some training (eg. Certificate in Agriculture), but remuneration increases significantly with increased responsibility.
Risks & Stresses
The viability of any agricultural enterprise is dependent upon external factors such as weather (drought, flood) and markets (supply and demand; both local and overseas prices). When times are good, work opportunity and remuneration can be good; but when times are bad, the workplace can become more stressful and opportunities less certain. Enterprises that are less susceptible to such fluctuations are likely to be more secure, less stressful and offer more opportunity for advancements. This varies depending upon the type of farm, and the financial position of the employer.
As work can also be seasonal (depending on the type of farming) there may not be a lot of job security for farm hands. It is a good idea to do some research on the type of farming available and your strengths before applying for work.
What Employers Seek
Employers generally seek honest and reliable workers. Some experience or knowledge, a driver's license and your own transport will be necessary to get employed. If it is an animal farm, you also need to be at ease working with animals.
How to Distinguish Yourself from the Competition
Study a different combination of modules or a different course. Be sure to only study courses that enhance your ability to think laterally -something that is critical for success in research.
This will also show that you are committed to the job and are looking to move forward the industry. Employers like to see this in their employees, it also is a sign of stability.
Recommended Courses
There are a variety of short courses you can undertake to improve your chances of getting the job you desire and gaining a deeper understanding of the agricultural industry. These include:
Farm Management
Agricultural Marketing
Animal Breeding
Beef Cattle
Aquaculture
Animal Husbandry III (Animal Feed & Nutrition)
Dairy Cattle
Equine Behaviour
Horse Care