Farmer Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2025

Ready to craft a standout farmer resume? Our guide is packed with tips, examples, and templates for experienced farmers and newcomers alike. Plant the seeds for a successful job application with our expert advice!
Julia Belak — Certified Professional Résumé Writer
Julia Belak
Certified Professional Résumé Writer
Last updated: April 24, 2025
Average: 4.9 (213 votes)
Community Food Project Worker Resume Sample
Created with Kickresume

Average: 4.9 (213 votes)

Crafting a top-notch farmer resume doesn’t have to be as hard as finding a needle in a haystack (pun intended). Armed with smart insights, you can highlight your skills and experiences effectively.

With the right tips, examples and templates, you’ll craft an application that stands out in the field! 

Greenhouse Worker Resume Sample
Greenhouse Worker Resume Sample
Farm Manager Resume Example
Farm Manager Resume Example
Farm Worker Resume Sample
Farm Worker Resume Sample
See more examples like these

In this guide, we'll discuss how to optimize each section of your resume to help you land the farming job of your dreams.

  • Explore resume samples for farmers
  • What resume format best suits the needs of a farmer
  • How to write a catchy resume summary or objective
  • How to highlight your top hard and soft skills in farming
  • How to detail your work experience and key agricultural projects
  • How to boost your resume using the right action words
  • How to make your education section pop
  • What additional sections to choose for your farmer resume
  • What are the common mistakes to avoid in a farmer resume
  • How to pair your resume with a great farmer cover letter
  • Where to find the best job search resources for farmers

Farm worker resume example

Farm Worker Resume Sample
Created with Kickresume

Why does this resume work?

  • Comprehensive profile: The resume provides a clear and concise profile, showcasing a strong work ethic, mechanical aptitude, and problem-solving skills, making the candidate's strengths immediately apparent.
  • Relevant certifications: Including a certificate as an Accredited Farm Manager shows dedication to professional development and adds credibility to the applicant’s skill set.
  • Language skills: Trilingual abilities in Spanish, English, and French are listed, which can be beneficial in a diverse work environment.

What could be improved?

  • Lack of metrics: The resume lacks quantifiable achievements. Including metrics such as “increased efficiency by 20%” would provide stronger evidence of impact.
  • High school education focus: The education section is centered around high school achievements, which may not be as relevant. It would be better to emphasize relevant coursework or training.

Farm manager resume example

Farm Manager Resume Example
Created with Kickresume

Why does this resume example work?

  • Impressive achievements: Tangible accomplishments, such as "a 35% increase in production", provide solid proof of impact and effectiveness.
  • Varied experience: The resume showcases a wide range of skills, from budgeting to public relations, demonstrating versatility and leadership in multiple aspects of farm management.

What could be improved?

  • Missing soft skill examples: While skills like "Excellent People Skills" are mentioned, the resume lacks specific examples to illustrate these abilities in action.
  • Lack of modern technology use: There's no mention of modern farming technologies or software, which could show adaptability and readiness for current farming innovations.

Greenhouse worker resume example

Greenhouse Worker Resume Sample
Created with Kickresume

Why does this resume work?

  • Clear objective: The resume starts with a straightforward objective that highlights adaptability and teamwork, setting a positive tone.
  • Achievement recognition: Winning Employee of the Month shows dedication and effectiveness, giving a boost to the applicant's credibility.
  • Diverse skills: The applicant lists various skills, like handiness and communication, showing they are a well-rounded worker.

What could be improved?

  • Limited work experience: Only two years in one position might not showcase a broad range of experiences. Highlighting specific projects could help.
  • High school education focus: Emphasizing high school achievements may not add much value. Adding more recent or relevant education would definitely strengthen it.

1. What resume format best suits the needs of a farmer 

When writing a farmer resume, there are three key formats to consider: reverse-chronologicalfunctional, and hybrid (also known as combination). Each offers unique benefits, so choose the one that best highlights your experience and skills.

  • Reverse-chronological resumes: They focus primarily on work experience, making this section the most prominent in the document. This format is best suited for farmers, as employers will be most interested in your previous work history and the experience you have to offer.

However, if you are new to the industry or are changing career paths within the industry, there are alternative options that may better suit your needs. These include:

  • Functional resumes: The functional resume focuses on education and skills over work experience. This format is commonly used by applicants who lack relevant work experience and have recently graduated from a degree or certification program.
  • Hybrid resumes: The hybrid resume combines elements of both the reverse-chronological and functional resumes. It is well-suited for applicants who have relevant experience, but perhaps not enough to fill an entire resume.

This format is often used by those with large gaps in their work history or those who are shifting from one career path to another (i.e. a farming accountant who has chosen to pursue farm management instead). 

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2. How to write a great resume summary or objective as a farmer

Nailing your resume summary or objective can be your ticket to catching an employer’s eye. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just getting your boots muddy (maybe quite literally, too), knowing how to write them effectively is key to making a memorable first impression.

Writing a catchy resume summary

A summary gives a quick glimpse of your skills and goals. It's your chance to shine right off the bat, especially if you're aiming for a management role in farming.

Key components:

  • Specific achievements and experiences
  • Clear career goals
  • Technical and interpersonal skills

Let's dive into two contrasting examples of resume summaries belonging to farmer applicants:

Bad farmer resume summary example

Farmer with a decade’s experience. Managed teams and connected with customers. Looking to move into management.

Why is this not-so-great? This is too generic and doesn’t stand out. It lacks specifics like exact years or team sizes that would make it pop.

Good farmer resume summary example

Associate Farm Manager seeking advancement to a Lead Farm Manager position. Over 11 years of experience working in fields, managing crops, directing crews of 20+ members, and implementing horticulture systems. Highly experienced in customer relationships and establishing new customer agreements.     

Why is this example better? In this example, the applicant clearly states their intention to move up within the industry, as well as providing much more specific details regarding their experience and qualifications. They address both their technical and interpersonal strengths, making this resume summary much more impressive to potential employers. 

If you're higher in the farming hierarchy, such as at the management level, it is often to your benefit to focus on your professional objectives within this summary as well. 

Farmer resume summary examples

Crafting a great resume objective

An objective is perfect for newcomers or career changers. It zeroes in on your goals and how they fit with the job.

Key components:

  • Clear goals
  • Relevance to the job
  • Supporting skills or experiences

 Bad resume objective example

Looking for a job where I can work outdoors and learn about farming.

Why is it lacking? This objective is too vague and doesn’t specify the candidate's skills or how they benefit the employer. It lacks direction and focus, which can leave employers guessing about your fit for the role.

 Good resume objective example

Passionate entry-level farmer eager to join a sustainable agriculture team. Bringing skills in crop management and irrigation to support farm productivity and innovation.

Why does it work? This objective is clear and focused. It highlights relevant skills and shows enthusiasm for the role, making it easier for employers to see the candidate’s potential value.

Farmer resume objective examples

3. Which key skills should you include in a farmer resume

Choosing the right skills for your farmer resume is crucial. Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities like operating machinery or managing crop cycles. Soft skills, on the other hand, are personal attributes that impact how you interact and work with others, such as teamwork and communication.

Focus on the skills relevant to the farming job you’re applying for. Start by listing those mentioned in the job ad—if you possess them, of course—as they reflect the employer’s immediate needs.

What's more, ATS scans for these to identify suitable candidates, so using the right keywords boosts your chances of getting noticed.

Soft skills for farmers

  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Adaptability
  • Work ethic

Hard skills for farmers

  • Crop management
  • Machinery operation
  • Irrigation techniques
  • Pest control
  • Soil analysis
  • Record keeping

So, once you've listed these, should it stop there? Surely not. Don't just list these skills; weave them into your resume by linking them to your achievements.

For example, instead of just stating "irrigation techniques," mention how you improved yield efficiency using specific irrigation methods.

In a nutshell, selecting the most relevant skills and aligning them with the job description can significantly enhance your resume. It helps demonstrate your suitability and readiness to contribute effectively to a potential employer's operations.

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4. How to describe your work experience and key projects

Your work experience and key projects section is where you truly let your expertise shine. What you need is to:

  • Keep it clear with bulleted lists
  • Kick off with strong verbs to grab attention
  • Spice it up with interesting adjectives
  • Throw in numbers to highlight accomplishments

Simply said, this section should convey not just what you did, but how you made a difference.

Bad example of a work experience entry

Generic Farms, Inc., Anywhere, USA
Farm Worker
January 2010 - December 2015

  • Worked on the farm.
  • Took care of crops.
  • Managed workers. 

Why is it so bad? This example is too vague and doesn’t provide any specifics about accomplishments or improvements. It uses plain verbs without any detail or impact.

Good example of a work experience entry

Hideaway Farms, Inc. Glendale Springs, NC
Farm Manager 
June 2014 - March 2020

  • Led a team of 15 in planting and harvesting, increasing crop yield by 20%.
  • Implemented advanced irrigation systems that reduced water usage by 30%.
  • Managed pest control solutions, cutting down incidents by 25%.

Key Project: Sustainable Crop Rotation Plan

  • Designed and implemented a rotation schedule that boosted soil fertility and reduced costs by 15%.
  • Introduced cover crops to enhance soil health and prevent erosion.

Why does it work? This example is detailed, specific, and shows achievement. What's more, it uses strong verbs like "led" and "implemented," paired with measurable outcomes, making it more impactful.

Tips for students and fresh graduates

Have you just finished school or are you light on work experience? No worries! We've got some tips on how to make your work experience section pop:

  • Include any group projects or club activities that relate to farming
  • Mention relevant coursework or hands-on workshops
  • Don’t forget to list any awards or recognitions

Example of work a work experience entry for a fresh graduate

  • Assisted in a community garden project that won the 'Best Sustainable Initiative' award.
  • Developed a small-scale composting system for local farms, improving soil health and reducing waste.

Remember, your work experience and projects section should tell a story of growth and achievement. Use it to showcase not just what you’ve done, but how you’ve made a difference. Remember, strong verbs and specific outcomes make your resume memorable and compelling.

5. How to use action words in a farmer resume

You can easily spruce up your farmer resume with the right action words. These words aren’t just for show—they help spotlight your achievements and make sure your resume doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.

Why are they a big deal?

  • Highlight success: Action words showcase how you’ve made a difference in your previous roles, turning basic tasks into noteworthy accomplishments.
  • Catchy and clear: They keep your resume lively and interesting, grabbing the reader's attention and keeping them hooked.
  • Leave a mark: Make your skills memorable and impactful with strong, compelling language.

Picture this: Instead of saying "Worked with crops," you say "Cultivated high-yield crops, boosting production by 20%." See the difference? It's all about showing your value and proving you're the one who gets things done.

Powerful action words for a farmer resume

  • Cultivated: Cultivated high-yield crops, boosting production by 20%.
  • Managed: Managed a team of 10 workers, improving efficiency and morale.
  • Implemented: Implemented new irrigation techniques, reducing water usage by 30%.
  • Harvested: Harvested and processed over 100 acres of corn annually.
  • Optimized: Optimized planting schedules to maximize seasonal growth.
  • Boosted: Boosted farm revenue by 15% through direct-to-market sales.
  • Developed: Developed a pest control strategy that cut infestations by 25%.
  • Led: Led sustainability initiatives, earning eco-friendly certifications.
  • Supervised: Supervised maintenance of equipment, reducing downtime.
  • Coordinated: Coordinated crop rotation plans, improving soil health.

By weaving these words into your resume, you’ll paint a picture of a proactive and efficient worker. Remember, a little wordplay goes a long way in making your achievements truly shine on paper!

Farmer resume action words

6. How to list your education on your farmer resume

Listing your education and certifications properly on your resume as a farmer is crucial. There is no one precise path to becoming a farmer—however, there are certain educational credentials and certifications required to move up within the farming hierarchy. 

When listing these details, make sure to include your highest level of education, along with any relevant and unexpired certifications you've earned. 

Here’s how to tailor this based on your background:

Scenario 1: Degree not in a related field

If your degree isn’t directly related to farming, make your education section more robust by including relevant projects, courses, and achievements.

Education section example for those with an unrelated degree

B.A. in Environmental Science | State University 
Graduated: 2018

  • Relevant Courses: Sustainable Agriculture, Soil Science
  • Projects: Developed an urban garden project, recognized for innovation
  • Academic Achievement: Dean’s List for academic excellence

Scenario 2: Degree in a related field

If your degree is related, you can keep it concise since the relevance is clear.

Education section example for those with a related degree

B.S. in Agricultural Business | The University of Tennessee
Graduated: 2016

  • GPA: 3.9
  • Double Major: Farm and Ranch Studies & Agribusiness 

Certifications

Tip for fresh graduates: List your education before work experience or activities. This puts your academic achievements front and center while you’re building your professional background.

Whether your education is directly related or not, showcasing it effectively can boost your credibility. Use this section to complement your experience and highlight any relevant skills or knowledge.

Remember, a well-crafted education section helps paint the full picture of your qualifications. And that's a win!

7. How to choose relevant extra sections for a farmer resume

Adding extra sections to your farmer resume can give it the edge by highlighting diverse skills and experiences. And showcasing your unique qualifications will make you stand out (especially if the pool of candidates is as vast as a sprawling cornfield).

So, how to actually choose?

Consider your experiences that go beyond typical farming duties. Select sections that complement your skills and demonstrate additional value to potential employers.

These sections should reflect your passions, community involvement, or additional expertise that sets you apart.

Some relevant sections for your farmer resume:

  1. Volunteering: Volunteering demonstrates community involvement and a willingness to contribute beyond work. Projects like community gardens or educational workshops show commitment to sustainable practices and community growth.
  2. Workshops & training: Listing workshops or training sessions highlights your commitment to ongoing learning. Include any attended agricultural seminars or certifications that aren’t covered in the main education section.
  3. Professional memberships: Memberships in farming associations can show engagement with the industry. They show your dedication to staying informed about the latest agricultural trends and practices.

Extra sections example from a farmer resume

Volunteering

Community Garden Coordinator | Greenfield Initiative Springfield, IL | 2019 - Present

  • Organized workshops on sustainable practices for community residents.

 

Workshops & Training

Advanced Irrigation Techniques Training Dallas, TX | 2020

  • Enhanced skills in water-use efficiency and resource management.

 

Professional Memberships

Member | American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers 2018 - Present

Should I add hobies?

This is a question many ask themselves. The simple answer is to add hobbies if they're relevant to the farming position or if they demonstrate a suitable skill, like determination.

So, if your hobbies are relevant enough, they can enhance your application. But if you're trying to impress the hiring manager with your passion for collecting baseball cards, you might want to skip the section (unless the hiring manager is a real baseball fan). 

Instead, mention your interest in home gardening or participation in local agricultural clubs. These can trully highlight your passion and commitment to the field (pun intended again).

All in all, by carefully selecting relevant extra sections, you can create a well-rounded farmer resume that highlights your full range of skills and experiences.

8. How to avoid common mistakes on a farmer resume

Creating a standout farmer resume doesn't have to be a rough ride. By dodging some common mistakes, you can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Here’s how to keep things smooth and impressive:

  1. Being too vague: When describing your work, avoid being too vague. Instead of saying "managed crops," detail what kind and how much. Paint a picture with specifics to show your impact and skills.
  2. Ignoring keywords: Don't skip over keywords from the job ad. Including them helps your resume sail through ATS and catches the attention of hiring managers. Oh, and make sure they naturally fit within your descriptions.
  3. Overloading with Unrelated Information: Kep it focused. Listing unrelated jobs or hobbies can muddy the waters. Stick to experiences and skills that directly connect to farming or show relevant strengths like teamwork.
  4. Poor formatting: A cluttered resume can be off-putting. Use a clean, easy-to-read layout with clear sections and bullet points. Your resume should be as organized as a well-planned field.
  5. Forgetting to proofread: Typos and mistakes can stick out like a sore thumb. Always double-check your resume for errors, or ask someone else to take a look. A polished resume shows attention to detail.
  6. Not Showcasing achievements: Don’t just list duties; focus on what you've achieved. Instead of saying “handled equipment,” mention if you improved efficiency or reduced downtime.
  7. Using Clichés: Phrases like “hard worker” or “team player” can be bland. Use specific examples to demonstrate these qualities instead of relying on tired clichés.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll cultivate a strong, effective farmer resume that stands out to potential employers.

9. How to pair your resume with a matching farmer cover letter

A resume tells your story, but pairing it with a strong cover letter can elevate your application even more.

While the resume outlines your skills and experiences, the cover letter adds a personal touch, allowing you to express your passion and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

Including a cover letter is essential unless the job ad specifically says not to. It's your chance to dive deeper into your achievements and connect the dots for the employer.

Additionally, using the same design and style for both the resume and cover letter ties your application together, creating a cohesive and professional impression. You present yourself as organized and committed.

So, what exactly should match?

  • Font style and size: Ensure consistency in font choice and size across both documents.
  • Color scheme: Use the same color palette to maintain uniformity.
  • Header layout: Align your contact information and name placement.
  • Margins and spacing: Keep margins and spacing consistent for a neat look.
  • Visual elements: Match any icons or graphics used.

In summary, never underestimate the power of a well-crafted cover letter alongside your resume. Together, they form a complete package that highlights your qualifications and enthusiasm for the farming position.

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10. Top job search resources for farmers

With the right resources, hunting for that perfect farming job can feel more like a stroll through the fields. Here’s your go-to list for landing your next opportunity:

  1. Online job boards: Websites like AgCareers.com and FarmersWeeklyJobs specialize in agricultural positions, catering specifically to those in the farming industry. Frequent updates make it easy to find relevant listings tailored to your skills.
  2. Agricultural associations: Joining groups like the National Farmers Union or the American Farm Bureau Federation can provide networking opportunities and job listings. These organizations often host job fairs and events where you can meet potential employers.
  3. Local co-ops and extension offices: Your local agricultural co-op or extension office can be a rich resource for job leads. They often have bulletin boards or newsletters featuring openings in the local area.
  4. Social media and online networks: Platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook groups dedicated to agricultural jobs can connect you with industry professionals and potential employers. Engage in discussions and keep an eye out for job postings.
  5. Networking events and workshops: Attending farming conferences, workshops, and trade shows can open doors to new opportunities. These events are great for building connections and learning about job openings firsthand.

Armed with these resources, you're set to dig into the job market and find the ideal farming gig. Best of luck, and may your search yield fruitful results!

Food Production Career Outlook in 2025

It’s projected that between 2023 and 2033, the number of agricultural workers will decrease by 2%. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Even though employment in agriculture is declining, about 116,400 positions are expected to open each year. All of these openings will come from replacing workers who change careers or retire.

Average US base salaries across popular Food Production roles:

  • Farmer: $40,399/year
  • Butcher: $43,220/year
  • Farm Worker: $41,201/year
  • Agronomist: $74,076/year
  • Agricultural Technician: $84,041/year

Salary estimates are based on data submitted anonymously to Indeed by individuals working in these roles, as well as information from past and present job postings on the platform over the last 36 months.

These salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, employment type, or experience level.

Overall, while the total number of food production roles is expected to decline, the consistent demand for replacements means there are still plenty of opportunities in the field.

Farmer Resume FAQ

How do I highlight seasonal work experience in my farmer resume?

Focus on achievements and skills gained during each season. Mention specific tasks, crop yields, or improvements you contributed to, even if the jobs were short-term.

What should I do if I’m transitioning to farming from a different industry?

Emphasize transferable skills like management, budgeting, or any hands-on experience. Include relevant volunteer work or courses you've taken related to agriculture.

How can I showcase my use of technology in farming?

Highlight any experience with modern farming tech like GPS, drones, or farm management software. Mention specific tools or systems you're familiar with.

Should I include small-scale projects or home gardening on my resume?

If it's relevant to the position and demonstrates skills useful for the job, definitely include it. Be sure to highlight what you learned or achieved.

How can I make my resume stand out if I lack formal education in farming?

Focus on practical experience, skills, and any certifications you've earned. Emphasize hands-on knowledge and highlight specific accomplishments in farming tasks.

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Julia is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) and an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC™). She is also a passionate translator and graphic designer. Julia holds degrees in translation and interpretation and has international work experience in various countries across Europe, as well as in China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and contributed as a graphic designer to outlets such as The Business of Business. You'll often find her with a book in one hand and a specialty coffee in the other, always on the lookout for new insights.

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