Vegetable Grower
SOC 11-9013.00 · ESCO 1311 · OSCA 151236
Role snapshot
Overview
A Vegetable Grower plans crop rotations, manages planting and harvesting schedules, and monitors soil, water, and pest conditions to produce fresh vegetables for wholesale markets or direct sale. This role involves hands-on cultivation, operational management, and often direct sales and marketing of produce.
Provides fresh, healthy food to communities, supports local economies, and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices and food security.
On the job
- Prepare soil, plant seeds or seedlings, and manage crop growth through watering, fertilizing, and weeding.
- Monitor crops for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, implementing appropriate organic or conventional treatments.
- Plan and execute harvesting schedules to ensure optimal ripeness and quality of vegetables.
- Operate and maintain farm machinery such as tractors, tillers, and irrigation systems.
- Manage inventory, packaging, and distribution of harvested produce to markets or customers.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
Certificate, diploma, or bachelor's degree in horticulture, agriculture, or a related field; practical experience is often highly valued.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Vegetable Grower
Agriculture & Food
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ERC
People who enjoy hands-on, practical work, managing operations, and following structured processes to achieve tangible results often thrive as a Vegetable Grower.
Personality characteristics
Organized
Systematically plans crop rotations, planting schedules, and resource management to ensure efficient operations.
Practical
Prefers hands-on work in the field and enjoys operating machinery and solving tangible problems.
Resilient
Remains calm and focused when facing unpredictable challenges like weather, pests, or market fluctuations.
Observant
Pays close attention to plant health, soil conditions, and environmental factors to identify potential issues early.
Enterprising
Takes initiative in managing farm operations, making decisions, and often engaging in direct sales and marketing of produce.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy working independently or in small teams, with a strong connection to nature.
- Those who find satisfaction in seeing the direct results of their labor, from planting to harvest.
- People who are organized, resilient, and enjoy a mix of practical tasks and operational management.
Watch out for
- The work involves significant physical labor and exposure to outdoor elements.
- Income can be seasonal and subject to market fluctuations and environmental factors.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Vegetable Grower — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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