Tractor driver

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

You could do a college course to get some of the skills you need to become a tractor driver.

You could do a level 2 award in tractor driving and related occupations or in safe working in agriculture and production horticulture.

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

Apprenticeship

You could do a general farm worker intermediate apprenticeship.

This apprenticeship usually takes 18 months to complete.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

DirectApplication

There is no set route to become a tractor driver so you could apply directly.

It might be useful if you have some experience in farming and a knowledge of basic mechanics.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• the ability to work on your own
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
• knowledge of food production methods
• concentration skills
• analytical thinking skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• observation and recording skills
• problem-solving skills
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• business management skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• knowledge of building and construction
• design skills and knowledge
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to repair machines or systems
• active listening skills

What you'll do:

Tractor drivers operate farm machinery to plough fields, plant seeds, and spray and harvest crops.

In this role you could:

• discuss work with the farm manager
• plough fields, sow seeds and harvest crops
• spray crops with fertilisers and pesticides
• use tractor attachments to cut hedges and make hay bales
• maintain equipment and carry out basic repairs

Location : You could work on a farm.
Environment : Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers, cramped, noisy, physically demanding and dusty.
Uniform : You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Salary:

Starter : £16,000
Experienced : £30,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

60 - 62 hours seasonal

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays

Career Path:

With experience you could:

• become a supervisor or farm manager, agricultural contractor , or agricultural engineer
• be a tractor driver in different sectors such as maintaining outdoor spaces for local government
• take further training to operate different machinery