Farm worker.
Also known as Agricultural operative, Farm operative, Horticultural worker
Farm workers carry out practical agricultural and horticultural tasks in livestock, dairy, tillage and growing operations across rural Ireland, supporting food production through the seasons.
What this role involves
Farm workers and agricultural operatives carry out the hands-on tasks that keep livestock, dairy, tillage, poultry and horticultural operations running across rural Ireland. Depending on the enterprise, duties can include feeding and caring for animals, milking, operating and maintaining machinery, planting, harvesting, and general maintenance of land, fencing and buildings. The work is seasonal and weather-dependent, often with early starts, and is central to Ireland's agri-food sector. It suits reliable, physically capable people who are comfortable working outdoors and, on many farms, handling animals.
When this role fits
Likely a fit when
- you can carry out practical farm or horticultural work
- you are comfortable with outdoor, seasonal and physical work
Likely not a fit when
- you are seeking indoor or office-based work
- you are looking for an agricultural science or advisory role
Official occupation classification
Roles like this usually map to the following SOC 2010 occupation code, which Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment uses on its occupation lists.
- SOC 5119Primary
Employment permit route signal
Possible but conditional
This is an occupation-level signal only. The exact duties, salary, qualifications, employer and permit route decide the outcome.
- On the Ineligible List, except for sea fisher in the Irish fishing fleet; speciality forestry harvesting technician. A role that fits that exception is not excluded, so the General Employment Permit route applies.
This is an occupation-level signal only. It is not a determination of eligibility, sponsorship, or permit approval.
Typical skills and qualifications
Licences
- Forklift licence
Certifications
- Manual handling certificate
Transferable skills
- Teamwork
- Time management
Find licensed recruitment agencies
Licensed agencies whose public websites mention the relevant sector. Explore the directory to research each agency yourself.
3 agencies whose websites mention Agriculture and food production recruitment
Browse Agriculture and food production agencies
Before you rely on a permit pathway
Depending on the exact duties, salary and employer, some roles in this area may be considered under Ireland's General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit routes, while others may fall on the ineligible list. This is general information only, not immigration advice, and official eligibility depends on the current occupation lists and your individual circumstances.
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Important
Source: IrishTalents editorial content, aligned to the UK SOC 2010 occupation classification used by Ireland's Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.