Farm Worker Jobs in Ireland – A Complete Guide to Earning, Living & Growing in the Irish Agri Sector
Ireland’s agriculture industry has long been the heartbeat of the nation’s economy. From lush green pastures and dairy farms to mushroom tunnels and vegetable fields, Irish farms are constantly in need of reliable, hardworking people — both locals and international workers.
Whether you’re looking for a stable job with visa sponsorship, farm jobs in Ireland with housing, or simply want to experience seasonal agricultural work, this sector is filled with opportunity. The rise of jobs in agriculture in Ireland is tied to both global food demands and domestic labor shortages — making it the perfect time to get involved.
Whether you’re a student on break, a skilled machine operator, or someone looking for farm work with good pay rates, this guide will help you understand what to expect, how to apply, and how to thrive in the green fields of Ireland.
Why Farm Work in Ireland is a Smart Career Move
Work That Pays — And Feeds the World
With rising global food demand, Ireland’s agri-food industry is thriving — and that means steady hiring across dairy, horticulture, livestock, and tillage sectors. It’s not just about picking potatoes or milking cows anymore; modern Irish farms are tech-enabled and skill-hungry.
Workers are being offered:
- Attractive hourly pay
- Visa sponsorship opportunities
- On-site accommodation
- Training in machinery and farm safety
- Seasonal and permanent contracts
From mushroom picking jobs in Monaghan to dairy farm worker roles in Cork, opportunities are plenty if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves.
What You’ll Actually Do as a Farm Worker
Everyday Tasks on Irish Farms
Depending on the type of farm, your day could include:
- Milking and feeding dairy cattle
- Harvesting vegetables, fruit, or mushrooms
- Driving tractors or farm vehicles (training often provided)
- General maintenance (barn cleaning, fence repairs)
- Assisting with animal health checks
- Weeding, planting, and greenhouse care
Farm work in Ireland is physically demanding but structured. If you enjoy nature, teamwork, and tangible results, this job delivers all three.
Quick Story:
Diego, a worker from Mexico, joined a farm in County Kilkenny through a recruitment agency. Initially hired for a seasonal vegetable harvesting role, he was offered a full-time contract with housing included after just three months. “It changed everything,” he says. “Now I’m learning how to operate machinery and planning to apply for a permanent visa.”
How Much Do Farm Workers in Ireland Earn?
Understanding Pay Rates & Perks
Farm workers are generally paid by the hour, with pay increasing depending on experience and responsibilities.
- Entry-level: €11.30–€12.50/hour
- Skilled roles (machinery, livestock): €13–€16/hour
- Overtime Pay: Many farms offer higher weekend or holiday rates
- Bonuses: Some offer productivity or seasonal completion bonuses
- Free Housing: Many remote farms include shared or single accommodation
For full-time roles, weekly earnings can reach €550–€750 or more — making it one of the more reliable income sources in rural Ireland. And when housing and utilities are included, your take-home value increases significantly.
Many agricultural jobs in Ireland now offer performance-based pay and long-term security.
Best Places in Ireland to Find Farm Work
Farming happens all across the country, but some counties are known hiring hotspots:
- County Cork: Massive dairy farms, cattle breeding, and horticulture
- County Monaghan: Famous for its mushroom industry (year-round hiring)
- County Wexford: Vegetable and fruit farming, including strawberries and potatoes
- County Tipperary: Beef and grain farms
- County Laois: Livestock and organic farming
Large commercial farms and family-run businesses alike are actively looking for new workers — especially those who are dependable and willing to learn.
Can You Get a Farm Job in Ireland Without an EU Passport?
Yes — Here’s How Visa Sponsorship Works
Ireland offers legal work permits for certain types of agricultural jobs, particularly where there’s a labour shortage. If you’re from a non-EU/EEA country, you can apply through:
General Employment Permit (GEP)
- Valid for 2 years, renewable
- Requires a job offer and minimum salary threshold
- Often used for dairy farming jobs in Ireland for foreigners
Agri-Food Work Permit
- Designed for meat processing, dairy assistants, and horticulture roles
- Lower salary thresholds, quicker processing
Essential Requirements:
- Signed job offer contract
- Passport and documentation
- Proof of qualifications or relevant experience (basic farm work included)
- English communication skills (basic conversational level)
You can apply directly or through your employer, and many Irish farms are open to sponsoring skilled and committed international workers.
Where to Find Legit Farm Worker Jobs in Ireland
Trusted Job Boards & Agencies
Finding the right opportunity is about knowing where to look.
Recommended Job Portals:
- Jobs.ie – Use filters like “farm worker”, “agriculture”
- AgriRecruit.ie – Focused solely on agri jobs
- Indeed.ie – Search “farm jobs Ireland with housing“
- IrishJobs.ie – Covers full-time and contract roles
Reputable Agencies:
- FRS Recruitment – Well-known for agri placements
- Workforce Ireland
- Agri-Lloyd
Pro Tip:
Join local Facebook groups like “Farm Jobs Ireland” or “Agriculture Work in Ireland”. Many employers post directly and respond quickly to messages.
Must-Have Skills and Qualities for Success
You don’t need a degree to start — but you do need the right mindset.
- Reliability: Farms run on routine; showing up matters
- Physical fitness: The job involves lifting, bending, walking
- Teamwork: Most farms work in crews
- Openness to learning: Training is often offered for safety, tools, and livestock
- Respect for rules: Hygiene, biosecurity, and equipment handling are strict
Some roles will teach you everything on the job, while others require a little experience — but having a strong work ethic is universally valued.
FAQs – Farm Work in Ireland
Q: Can non-EU citizens apply for farm worker jobs in Ireland?
A: Yes, through visa sponsorship routes like the General Employment Permit and Agri-Food Work Permit Scheme.
Q: Are Irish farms hiring for seasonal jobs only?
A: No, both seasonal farm jobs in Ireland and long-term contracts are available across livestock, dairy, and horticulture sectors.
Q: Is housing provided with farm jobs in Ireland?
A: Many farms offer free or subsidized housing, especially in rural areas or during peak harvest season.
Q: How do I get a sponsored farm job in Ireland?
A: Apply through job portals or agencies. Once you receive a job offer, the employer can assist with visa paperwork.
Q: What’s the average salary for agricultural workers in Ireland?
A: Most workers earn between €11.30 and €16 per hour, with many employers offering additional bonuses or benefits like housing.
Final Thoughts – Your Next Step May Start in the Irish Fields
There’s something deeply satisfying about working with your hands, breathing fresh air, and seeing the fruits of your labor — literally. Farm worker jobs in Ireland aren’t just a stop-gap or summer gig. For many, they’re a gateway to long-term stability, savings, and even a new home.
You might be coming to earn a better wage. You might be hoping to stay longer and settle. Or maybe you just want to try something new, far from crowded cities and screens. Whatever your reason — Ireland’s farms offer the chance to do meaningful, grounded work in a beautiful setting.
So why not take that step? The green fields are waiting — and they need people like you.
