Labor4Learning

The Labor4Learning program helps beginning farmers get paid on-the-job training with experienced farmers, and pays experienced farmers for their time and effort.

Beginning Farmers:

Are you looking to get paid, on-the-job training with experienced farmers in Iowa?  The Labor4Learning program is designed for beginning farmers seeking employment and additional training in farm management and production skills. Practical Farmers of Iowa “trainer” farmers will be hiring in the early part of the new year for the upcoming growing season. Browse the list below for training opportunities near you.

Get paid at least minimum wage and earn other benefits, including:

  • Learn farm business development from an experienced PFI farmer
  • Paid time off to attend a PFI event during the term of employment
  • Discount to the Practical Farmers of Iowa Annual Conference ($100 value)
  • Connect with other “PFI Trainees”
  • A free PFI membership

Qualifications:

  • Apply and be hired by a PFI Trainer farmer.
  • Have a strong motivation to learn the business of farming.

To apply, send current resume and three work-related references directly to the trainer. Direct any questions about job details to the trainer as well.

See a Labor4Learning profile from Donna Warhover’s Morning Glory Farm in 2017.

Curious about your rights as a farm worker? Be sure to check out our Farm Employment FAQ for answers to your questions.

Experienced Farmers:

Are you looking for a high quality, motivated farm employee? Want to get paid up to $200 per month (maximum $1,000 per year) by Practical Farmers to share the business details a beginning farmer needs to know to be successful managing his/her own farm? Apply to be a Practical Farmers of Iowa Trainer.

Applications to become a Trainer are accepted through January 8, 2020 for the following 2020 season. All complete applications submitted will be reviewed by a committee made of diverse Practical Farmers member farmers, and selections will be made in early February.  Applicants must be PFI members who farm in Iowa to be eligible.

Hesitant to hire a farm employee due to questions about legal requirements? Check out our Farm Employment FAQ about the rights and responsibilities for Iowa farm workers and farm employers.

Interested in becoming a Labor4Learning trainer farm? We take applications during December and January. Labor4Learning trainer applications have closed for 2020.

Check out the list of last year’s trainers

Contact Information

For any questions about the Labor4Learning program: contact Greg Padget at greg@practicalfarmers.org