Tractor Machine Operator Jobs
Become a Tractor and Machine Operator Today!

What does a day in the life of a tractor and machine operator look like?

Depending on the location and type of work, farm machinery operators can enjoy a balance of routine and regular changes of scenery that keep things interesting. After an early start and daily toolbox talk, tractor drivers set out to complete a range of farming duties in accordance with daily schedules. This includes performing basic tractor maintenance and cleaning duties in the workshop or bay.

What are the roles and responsibilities of a tractor driver and a machine operator?

A tractor driver is responsible for operating agricultural machinery such as headers, spray rigs, balers, graders, seeders and harvesters for the purposes of seeding, planting, spraying and discing, among other tasks. In addition to these duties, a machine operator is also responsible for construction duties such as ground prep, roadworks and loading manure and feed.

Tractor drivers and farm machinery operators can find work on farms specialising in horticulture, broadacre, livestock, row cropping and viticulture. They play an important role across a range of facilities, including almond and apple orchards; cotton, grain, dairy, poultry and mixed cropping farms; cattle stations, piggeries and feedlots. Wherever there are goods in need of transport, there’s room for a tractor driver on the team!

What can a tractor driver and machinery operator expect to earn?

Depending on duties, experience and rostered hours, tractor and machine operators generally earn a base hourly rate between $25 and $35 with penalty rates for overtime. Many farms pay a flat rate to cover any overtime – especially during peak seasons. Other benefits – such as accommodation, utilities and access to a vehicle and phone – are usually reserved for more senior roles.

What does career progression look like for a tractor and machine operator?

Most tractor operator jobs and machine operators begin their careers as junior farm hands. There are certain skills that many Tractor Operators have in order to accomplish their responsibilities. From there, they have opportunities to progress and take on more senior titles such as operator, supervisor or manager.

Where does Agri Talent provide tractor and machine operator roles?

Agri Talent partners with a variety of organisations to recruit for tractor and machine operator roles all around Australia, with a particular focus on regional Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Key areas include Toowoomba, Mildura, Shepparton, Griffith, Wagga Wagga, Forbes, Gatton, Hillston, Cressy, Ravensthorpe, Dysart, Emerald, Dalby and Swan Hill.