Agriculture Jobs in the U.S. for Immigrants with Visa Sponsorship 2024/2025

Securing U.S. Department of Agriculture jobs with visa sponsorship as immigrants can be challenging. The Department of Agriculture, a global organization, employs over 100,000 people in various locations.

Finding legitimate agricultural jobs in the USA that offer expedited work visa sponsorship can be complex. To make your search easier, we’ve gathered trustworthy sources for US agricultural jobs in 2024 and provided advice on choosing the right US agriculture work visa.

See the next section for more information.

What You Need to Know About U.S. Department of Agriculture Jobs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), established by Abraham Lincoln as the “people’s department,” has its origins in the country’s early agrarian society.

The USDA is a federal agency responsible for setting guidelines and standards for agriculture, natural resources, food, and related sciences and management issues.

With a workforce of 100,000 employees across about 4,000 locations in the United States and internationally, the USDA aims to develop and reward top talent by offering benefits and service programs focused on health and well-being. USDA jobs are available in various formats, including temporary, hybrid, and remote positions.

Top 5 US Farms Authorized to Hire International Farm Workers

Here’s a list of top U.S. farms granted license to hire immigrant farm workers in 2024: 

1. Sakuma Brothers Farm 

 

Arguably one of the best berry producers in the United States, this company has been hiring immigrants since its establishment in 1938. They usually hire over 4,000 international farming workers during peak season, mainly through the H-2A visa program.

They are known for their commitment to worker welfare, housing, providing fair wages, and educational opportunities.

2. Gebbers Farms, California

 

Specializing in almonds, walnuts, and prunes, this fourth-generation family farm employs over 1,000 workers, many of whom are on H-2A visas. They offer competitive wages and benefits, focusing on improving working conditions and sustainability practices.

3. Hogue Family Farms, North Carolina

 

A leading East Coast sweet potato producer, employing around 500 workers, including those with H-2A visas. They emphasize worker safety and training, along with sustainable farming practices to protect the environment.

4. Taylor Farms, California and Arizona

 

One of the largest lettuce producers in America, employing over 12,000 workers, including many H-2A visa holders. They prioritize automation, innovation, and sustainability in their operations.

5. Grimm Family Farms, Wisconsin

 

A family-owned dairy and vegetable farm hiring around 200 workers, including H-2A visa holders. They are committed to a positive work environment, fair wages, and sustainable agricultural practices.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Jobs Requirements

To be eligible for FAS Foreign Service trainee positions, candidates must have specific educational qualifications and specialized experience corresponding to certain General Schedule (GS) levels.

GS-09 Requirements

Candidates must have obtained their educational qualifications from an accredited college or university and must meet all eligibility criteria by the application deadline. For a GS-09 position, applicants need to have one of the following:

• One year of specialized experience at least equivalent to the GS-07 level in federal service
• Relevant educational qualifications
• A mix of specialized experience and relevant educational qualifications

Specialized Experience:

Candidates should be able to:

• Analyze economic and trade policies
• Examine market and consumer trends
• Conduct statistical analyses
• Write on economic topics
• Analyze financial markets

To qualify for the GS-09 level based on education, U.S. immigrants must have completed a master’s degree or equivalent, or have completed two full years of higher-level graduate education leading to a degree in a relevant field such as economics, agricultural or applied economics, statistics, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.

GS-11 Requirements 

To be eligible for this GS-11 position, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-9 level in federal service.
• Possess the necessary educational qualifications.
• Have a mix of relevant work experience and qualifying education.

Duties of the U.S. Department of Agriculture 

The USDA efforts contribute to a sustainable, and secure food and agriculture system in the United States. Here’s a brief overview of their duties:

1. Agricultural Support and Policy

One of the core functions of the USDA is to support American farmers and ranchers. This includes providing financial assistance, such as subsidies and loans, to help farmers manage the economic uncertainties of agriculture. 

The USDA also develops and implements policies that promote fair trade practices, stabilize farm income, and support rural communities. 

2. Food Safety and Inspection

Ensuring the safety of the nation’s food supply is another critical duty of the USDA. The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is tasked with inspecting meat, poultry, and egg products to ensure they are safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. 

3. Nutrition Assistance and Education

The USDA administers numerous nutrition assistance programs aimed at combating hunger and improving the nutritional quality of Americans’ diets. 

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase food. 

4. Conservation and Natural Resources

Through initiatives such as the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the USDA encourages farmers to adopt sustainable practices that protect soil, water, and wildlife. 

The U.S. Forest Service, a division of the USDA, manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands, promoting conservation, recreation, and sustainable resource management.

5. Research and Innovation

The USDA is at the forefront of agricultural research and innovation. The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) conducts scientific research to develop new technologies and practices that improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. 

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) funds research and education programs at universities and other institutions to address agricultural challenges and promote innovation.

6. Rural Development

The Rural Development (RD) agency provides loans, grants, and technical assistance to improve infrastructure, housing, and economic opportunities in rural areas. 

Programs aimed at expanding broadband access, improving water and waste management systems, and fostering business development help enhance the quality of life in rural America.

Farm Jobs that comes with Visa Sponsorship for Immigrants (H-2A and H-1B Visa)

Many USA Agricultural companies offers a variety of job opportunities for immigrants, including positions that come with visa sponsorship. 

Here are some of the key roles available for immigrants within the USDA, covering both temporary and permanent positions:

Farm Workers and Laborers – H-2A Visa Program

 

This program allows U.S. employers to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural jobs. Positions include planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops, as well as working in nurseries and greenhouses. 

These roles are essential during peak farming seasons when additional labor is needed.

Animal Care Workers 

 

Responsibilities include the care and management of livestock, dairy cattle, and poultry. Tasks may involve feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the health of animals.

Agricultural Scientists and Researchers

 

This type of job falls under the H-1B Visa Program. These positions require specialized knowledge and often advanced degrees. Roles include conducting research on crop production, pest control, and sustainable farming practices. 

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) are branches that frequently hire international scientists.

Veterinarians

 

Veterinarians working for the USDA may be involved in animal health inspection, disease control programs, and veterinary research. These roles are crucial for maintaining the health standards of livestock and poultry.

Agricultural Engineers

 

These professionals design agricultural machinery, equipment, and structures. They work on projects related to improving the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural production.

Food Inspectors and Safety Specialists

 

These positions involve ensuring that food products meet safety standards and regulations. Inspectors work in various settings, including slaughterhouses, processing plants, and agricultural facilities.

Environmental Scientists and Conservationists

 

These roles focus on managing natural resources, developing conservation plans, and conducting environmental impact assessments. They work to promote sustainable practices within agriculture and protect natural resources.

Economists and Policy Analysts

 

These professionals analyze agricultural markets, develop economic models, and assess the impact of agricultural policies. Their work supports the development of effective agricultural policies and programs.

Human Resources Specialists

 

These roles involve managing recruitment, employee relations, and benefits administration. HR specialists help ensure that the USDA attracts and retains a talented and diverse workforce.

IT Specialists

 

Information technology roles support the USDA’s technology infrastructure. Positions include system administrators, network engineers, and software developers who work on agricultural data systems and technology solutions.

Application Process and Visa Sponsorship

Immigrants seeking employment with the USDA must meet specific eligibility requirements and go through a thorough application process. 

The USDA often sponsors visas for eligible candidates, particularly for specialized and hard-to-fill positions. The primary visa programs include the H-2A for temporary agricultural workers and the H-1B for specialized roles. 

Additionally, the USDA participates in the federal government’s sponsorship program for employment-based green cards, facilitating permanent residency for qualifying employees.

Read Also: United States Jobs for Immigrants – USA Employment Opportunities

Conclusion 

All in all, the agricultural sector is the easiest department to get free visa jobs in the U.S. as an immigrant. So, it doesn’t matter if you’re an unskilled or skilled immigrant in the United States, there’s definitely a role for you. 

Moreover, some positions are temporary due to the need for more hands during harvest season, while the administrative roles are permanent. The U.S. immigrant farm workers can switch farm companies in case of discomfort or any issue.

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