Agriculture Jobs in UK with Visa Sponsorship 2024 (£12 Per Hour)

Agriculture Jobs in UK are essential to the country’s economy, providing opportunities for both local and international workers. With competitive pay at £12 per hour and visa sponsorship available for 2024, these roles offer an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to work in the UK’s thriving agricultural sector. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of agriculture jobs in the UK, the requirements, and how to apply for positions that offer visa sponsorship.

Why Are Agriculture Jobs in UK in Demand?

Agriculture jobs in the UK are in high demand for several reasons:

1. Labor Shortages: Due to a combination of Brexit and the aging domestic workforce, many farms are facing labor shortages. As a result, UK employers are increasingly offering visa sponsorship to attract international workers.
2. Seasonal Work Demand: The demand for agricultural labor is particularly high during peak seasons, such as planting and harvest time. Many farms rely on foreign workers to meet these seasonal labor needs.
3. Growing Agricultural Industry: The UK is known for producing a wide variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. Additionally, the livestock industry, particularly dairy and poultry farming, continues to thrive, increasing the need for farmworkers.

Types of Agriculture Jobs in the UK

Agriculture jobs in the UK cover a wide range of roles, from hands-on farming to specialized positions in machinery operation and animal care. Here are some of the most common roles available:

1. Farm Workers

Farm workers are responsible for planting, maintaining, and harvesting crops. They may also handle livestock, depending on the type of farm. This role typically involves physical labor and working outdoors in various weather conditions.

2. Fruit and Vegetable Pickers

Fruit and vegetable pickers are needed during harvest seasons to gather crops such as apples, strawberries, potatoes, and lettuce. These jobs are often seasonal, but some farms offer year-round work, especially in greenhouses.

3. Livestock Farm Workers

Livestock farm workers take care of animals such as cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens. Responsibilities include feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and assisting with breeding programs.

4. Machine Operators

Machine operators are skilled workers who operate farm machinery such as tractors, harvesters, and plows. These jobs require training and experience in operating heavy equipment, but they offer higher wages than general farm labor.

5. Greenhouse Workers

Greenhouse workers tend to crops grown in controlled environments. This role involves planting, watering, and maintaining plants, often for the production of flowers, herbs, and vegetables. Greenhouse jobs are often available year-round.

Salary Expectations for Agriculture Jobs in the UK

Agriculture jobs in the UK typically offer an hourly wage of £12. Depending on the role and level of experience, some positions may offer higher pay. Additionally, some jobs include perks such as free or subsidized accommodation and meals during work.

• Farm Workers: £12 per hour
• Fruit and Vegetable Pickers: £11 – £12 per hour
• Livestock Workers: £12 – £14 per hour
• Machine Operators: £14 – £16 per hour
• Greenhouse Workers: £12 per hour

Requirements for Agriculture Jobs in the UK

Agriculture jobs in the UK are generally accessible to workers with little formal education. However, there are some basic requirements and skills needed to succeed in these roles:

1. Physical Fitness

Agriculture jobs in the UK often involve physical labor, including lifting, bending, and working long hours outdoors. Workers should be in good health and able to handle the physical demands of the job.

2. Basic English Skills

While fluency in English is not always required, a basic understanding of English is important for communicating with supervisors and following safety instructions.

3. Experience with Farm Work (Optional)

Although not always necessary, having previous experience in farming, agriculture, or operating farm machinery can improve your chances of landing a job. Some positions, such as machine operators, may require specific skills and training.

4. Work Visa and Visa Sponsorship

Non-UK residents need a valid work visa to take up agriculture jobs in the UK. Many employers offer visa sponsorship, making it easier for international workers to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa or a Seasonal Worker Visa.

How to Apply for Agriculture Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship

If you’re interested in applying for agriculture jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship, here are the steps to follow:

1. Search for Jobs on Job Boards

Popular job boards like Indeed, Totaljobs, and the UK Government’s Job Bank regularly post agriculture jobs in the UK. Search for listings that mention “visa sponsorship” or “Seasonal Worker Visa” to find positions open to international workers.

2. Apply Directly to Farms and Agricultural Companies

Many farms and agricultural businesses have their own websites where they post job openings. You can apply directly through these sites or contact the farms to inquire about opportunities. Look for large-scale farms that regularly hire international workers, especially during harvest seasons.

3. Use Recruitment Agencies

Several recruitment agencies specialize in placing workers in agriculture jobs. Agencies like Concordia and HOPS Labour Solutions are well-known for helping international workers find farm jobs with visa sponsorship in the UK.

4. Prepare a Strong Resume

Even though agriculture jobs in the UK may not require advanced qualifications, it’s important to have a clear and concise resume that highlights your physical stamina, willingness to work outdoors, and any relevant experience. Be sure to mention any previous farming experience, machinery operation skills, or related work.

5. Apply for a Work Visa

Once you secure a job offer with visa sponsorship, you will need to apply for the appropriate work visa. For seasonal work, the Seasonal Worker Visa is common, while more permanent roles may require a Skilled Worker Visa. Your employer will assist you in obtaining the necessary visa.

Tips for Securing Agriculture Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship

Apply Early: Agriculture jobs in the UK, especially those offering visa sponsorship, can be competitive. Start your job search early, particularly if you’re looking for seasonal work during peak times like the summer harvest season.

Apply Early: While experience is not always necessary, having previous work experience in agriculture or related fields can make your application more attractive to employers. Volunteering on farms or gaining certifications in machinery operation can be helpful.

Be Flexible with Job Location: Agriculture jobs in the UK are spread across the country, from Scotland to England and Wales. Being open to working in rural or remote locations can increase your chances of finding employment, as many farms are located outside of major cities.

Network with Industry Contacts: Networking can help you discover job opportunities that may not be widely advertised. Join LinkedIn groups related to agriculture or connect with recruitment agencies that specialize in placing workers in UK farming jobs.

Prepare for Physical Work: Agriculture jobs in the UK are physically demanding, so make sure you are physically fit and ready to work in various weather conditions. Employers value workers who can handle the rigors of the job, especially during busy harvest periods.

Top Employers Offering Agriculture Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship

Several farms and agricultural companies in the UK offer visa sponsorship to international workers, particularly for seasonal roles. Some top employers include:

1. G’s Fresh: One of the largest salad and vegetable producers in the UK, G’s Fresh regularly hires seasonal workers with visa sponsorship.
2. Thanet Earth: A leading greenhouse grower in the UK, Thanet Earth offers year-round employment opportunities for greenhouse workers with visa sponsorship.
3. HOPS Labour Solutions: As a major agricultural recruitment agency, HOPS works with farms across the UK to place international workers in agriculture jobs.
4. Barfoots of Botley: Specializing in growing vegetables, Barfoots hires seasonal and year-round workers for positions in harvesting and packing, offering visa sponsorship for international staff.

Conclusion

Agriculture jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship offer excellent opportunities for international workers in 2024. With wages starting at £12 per hour, these roles provide stable employment in a growing sector. By applying early, gaining relevant experience, and targeting farms and companies known for sponsoring visas, you can secure a rewarding job in the UK’s agriculture industry.