Career guide

Agricultural machinery driver: career guide and training

As an agricultural machinery driver, you drive tractors and other agricultural machines for clients in farming and horticulture.

What will you do?

You prepare the soil, plant, sow, tend and harvest crops. The job is also known as tractor driver, harvester operator or agricultural contracting worker. You couple implements to the tractor, refuel and resupply the machines and carry out basic maintenance on your vehicle.

  • Check the vehicle and the on-board and transport documents
  • Couple implements and resupply the machines
  • Drive tractors and other agricultural vehicles
  • Prepare soil and plantations, sow and spread
  • Harvest ripe crops according to instructions
  • Carry out basic maintenance on the vehicle
  • Work safely and with respect for the environment

Skills to develop

  • Technical feel for machines and basic maintenance
  • Physically fit for outdoor work in all weather
  • Flexible during sowing and harvest season
  • Able to work independently and safely

Your foundation for this occupation

Assess tractor, implement and soil together. Working width, wheel tracks and settings influence crop results.

From preparation to your first day

  1. Develop the practical skills

    Practise coupling, headland turns and consistent passes under supervision.

  2. Check your work

    Check cultivation, overlap and machine condition; adapt to changing soil.

How can you grow?

Specialise in precision farming, harvesters or contracting schedules.

Frequently asked questions

Why is tractor driving alone insufficient?

The implement shapes the work. Incorrect adjustment can damage crops or soil even when driving is competent.

Sources and training

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