Farm Labor Contractors: Salary, Career Path & 6% Job Growth (2025 Guide)
Farm Labor Contractors earn a median of $58,460 per year, or about $28 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range spans from $30,930 at the 10th percentile to $84,050 at the 90th. It's a small occupation—only 310 people hold this title nationally—but it plays a critical role in agricultural recruiting and crew management.
How much Farm Labor Contractors earn
The median annual wage for Farm Labor Contractors is $58,460 (mean $58,470, about $28/hour), per BLS OEWS data. The bottom 10% earn around $30,930, while the top 10% make $84,050 or more.
Pay varies by experience, location, and the size of the crews you manage. Contractors who coordinate large seasonal harvests or handle specialty crops tend to earn higher incomes.
Pay by state
California tops the list at $85,710, followed closely by Florida at $79,590. Minnesota rounds out the top three at $50,730. Other states with significant contractor employment—such as Washington, Oregon, and Texas—also offer above-average wages, though BLS does not publish state-level figures for all.
Keep in mind that cost of living varies; California's high wage competes with its housing and fuel costs, while Minnesota's lower figure still represents solid income relative to its lower living expenses.
How to become a Farm Labor Contractor
There is no single degree required, but most contractors have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many start as farmworkers or crew leaders and move up, gaining practical knowledge of crops, labor laws, and Spanish (since many farmworkers are Spanish-speaking).
Licensing is the critical step. Under the federal Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (AWPA) and state laws in states like California, Florida, and Washington, you must register with the U.S. Department of Labor and obtain a state contractor license. Requirements typically include proof of insurance, a surety bond, and passing a written exam. Check your state's Department of Agriculture or Labor for specifics.
- Step 1: Gain experience in agriculture or farm labor management.
- Step 2: Study labor laws, Spanish, and business basics.
- Step 3: Apply for a federal Farm Labor Contractor Certificate of Registration from the DOL.
- Step 4: Obtain state license where required (e.g., California, Florida, Minnesota).
- Step 5: Secure a surety bond and workers' compensation insurance.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 6% employment growth for Farm Labor Contractors between 2024 and 2034—faster than the average for all occupations. About 300 openings per year are expected, mostly due to the need to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
Demand is driven by ongoing reliance on temporary and seasonal agricultural labor, especially in fruit, vegetable, and nursery crops. Contractors who can navigate H-2A visa programs and worker compliance will have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a Farm Labor Contractor?
The national median salary is $58,460 per year ($28/hour). Typical range: $30,930 to $84,050, per BLS.
How do I become a Farm Labor Contractor?
You need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience in farm labor, and a federal Farm Labor Contractor Certificate from the DOL. Many states also require a separate license, bonding, and insurance.
What is the job growth for Farm Labor Contractors?
The BLS projects 6% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 300 openings each year.
Which states pay Farm Labor Contractors the most?
California ($85,710), Florida ($79,590), and Minnesota ($50,730) are the highest-paying states with published data.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Farm Labor Contractors data.