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Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse

SOC 45-2092.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparation

Manually plant, cultivate, and harvest vegetables, fruits, nuts, horticultural specialties, and field crops. Use hand tools, such as shovels, trowels, hoes, tampers, pruning hooks, shears, and knives. Duties may include tilling soil and applying fertilizers; transplanting, weeding, thinning, or pruning crops; applying pesticides; or cleaning, grading, sorting, packing, and loading harvested products.

Context coveredRow-crop, orchard, vineyard, nursery, and greenhouse production; hand tools, harvest equipment, pesticide-safety training; seasonal and migrant labor.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Hand tools (hoes, knives, shears, pruners) — use safely on routine field or greenhouse tasks under a lead's direction.
  2. Personal protective equipment (gloves, sleeves, eyewear) — apply consistently for each task.
  3. Heat-illness signs and water-shade-rest practice — recognize and follow per OSHA and state rules.
  4. Worker Protection Standard re-entry intervals — follow without exception on treated fields.
  5. Standard harvest pace — meet on assigned crops after onboarding.
  6. Crew safety (ladders, knives, machinery proximity) — apply consistently on the line.
  7. Daily timecards and piece-count tallies — record accurately per the lead's verification.
  8. Field-sanitation facilities — use and request resupply when needed.
  9. Vehicle and bus safety — follow on transport to and from fields.
  10. Crew communications (Spanish, English, Indigenous languages) — engage clearly with the lead.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Skilled hand-harvest tasks (selective picking, grading at pick, packing) — perform reliably across the harvest window.
  2. Pruning, training, thinning, and bunching — execute correctly on the crop variety in season.
  3. Greenhouse rotations (seeding, transplanting, spacing) — perform at production pace.
  4. Pesticide-handler certification basics — apply correctly under a licensed applicator's plan.
  5. Equipment-assist tasks (harvest aids, trays, conveyors) — operate safely with the crew.
  6. Lead-worker roles on small crews — direct on familiar tasks with the supervisor's backing.
  7. Crew safety leadership at start-of-shift — deliver in workers' primary languages.
  8. Hand-tool maintenance and sharpening — perform during routine downtime.
  9. Field-quality calls (pick / no pick) — make consistently with the operation's standards.
  10. Junior workers and new hires — train on technique, pace, and safety.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Field-crew leadership across the season — schedule, train, and supervise on quality and pace.
  2. Harvest forecasts and pace planning — execute with the supervisor on yield and labor.
  3. Pesticide-handler/applicator certification — hold and apply per state-licensing rules.
  4. WPS, H-2A, and state-labor compliance basics — own with HR partners at crew level.
  5. Continuous-improvement on yield, quality, and labor cost — lead with measurable outcomes.
  6. Cross-crop and cross-season work — adapt with rapid retraining and clear handoffs.
  7. Equipment use (small tractors, harvest aids) — operate safely with documented training.
  8. Junior crew leads — mentor on supervision, recordkeeping, and crew dynamics.
  9. Documentation (worksheets, lot tracking, traceability) — own end-to-end on the crew.
  10. Communications with packing-shed and trucking — coordinate to keep flow tight.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Field-operations leadership across multiple crews and crops — set direction across season and labor force.
  2. Labor relations (H-2A, domestic, contract) — own with HR, legal, and agency partners.
  3. Major-customer audits (retailer, processor) — lead with documentation and corrective actions.
  4. Workforce development and apprenticeship programs — build with community partners.
  5. Safety culture and injury-reduction programs — lead with measurable outcomes.
  6. Industry forums and advocacy — represent the operation at growers' boards and councils.
  7. Capital decisions (harvest aids, labor-saving equipment) — author with the owner.
  8. Cross-site standardization (training, safety, recordkeeping) — institutionalize across crews.
  9. Crisis response (heat events, disease incursions, evacuations) — command at field level.
  10. Legacy mentorship of crew leads and supervisors — institutionalize through training programs.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic crop record entry — uses an AI-assisted mobile app to log pesticide applications, yields, and costs by speaking inputs rather than hand-writing field notes, reducing transcription errors Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Seasonal labor coordination support — queries an AI assistant to draft daily task assignments and monitoring checklists for casual harvest crews, then reviews and adjusts the output before communicating instructions to workers Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Post-harvest grading guidance — feeds inspection results and sorting criteria into an AI tool to generate grading summaries, verifying the output against direct observation before recording final quality assessments Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Crop monitoring interpretation — directs an AI tool to analyze logged field data (pest pressure, growth metrics, environmental readings) and surface anomalies, then applies hands-on observation to validate and act on the flagged conditions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Equipment maintenance triage — submits symptom descriptions of malfunctioning farm vehicles or implements to an AI assistant to retrieve diagnostic steps, then performs the physical inspection and repair independently Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Pesticide and input planning — uses an AI assistant to cross-reference crop-specific application schedules and regulatory constraints, producing a usage plan that a lead worker reviews before field application Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Integrated season workflow orchestration — coordinates AI-generated planting, transplanting, and harvest schedules with real-time labor availability data, retaining decision authority over adjustments driven by weather or crop condition changes Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI output quality control — evaluates the accuracy of AI-produced crop records, grading reports, and monitoring summaries against direct field evidence, identifying systematic errors and refining prompts or input procedures to improve reliability across the crew Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 37
Augment share: 3.7%
Time saved: 72%
AI autonomy: 3.54
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Speaking
Score: 48.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication9 statements
Emerging
  1. Crop progress reports — conveys basic field observations verbally to farm supervisors using simple descriptive language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety signage comprehension — interprets posted chemical handling and pesticide warnings in work areas O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Crew communication — relays planting, irrigation, or harvesting instructions to co-workers clearly during time-sensitive field operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pesticide record entries — documents chemical application details including product name, rate, and date in written farm logs O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Farm manager briefings — informs farmers and managers of crop progress, pest sightings, and equipment issues through structured verbal updates during daily check-ins Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Yield and cost documentation — records crop data including pesticide use, yield volumes, and input costs accurately in farm management records O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Multilingual crew coordination — communicates task instructions and safety protocols across language barriers within diverse seasonal labor crews Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional crop reporting — synthesizes field observations, yield data, and chemical use records into comprehensive briefings that inform planting and harvesting decisions for farm leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Seasonal worker onboarding communication — delivers structured orientation on crop handling procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards to incoming casual labor teams Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Peer task support — assists fellow farmworkers with correct harvesting or transplanting technique when asked during field operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Self-directed row completion — takes initiative to maintain pace and quality on assigned planting or harvest rows without waiting for constant supervisor direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Small crew guidance — leads a group of two to four workers through a specific harvesting or sorting task, monitoring output and correcting technique Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment readiness ownership — takes responsibility for pre-shift inspection of assigned farm machinery and reports deficiencies before operations begin O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Seasonal labor direction — monitors and directs the work of casual and seasonal help during peak planting and harvesting periods, adjusting crew assignments based on crop conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Harvest pace management — sets and maintains productivity benchmarks for crew members during time-critical harvest windows to minimize crop loss O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew performance development — mentors seasonal workers in proper harvesting, grading, and post-harvest handling techniques, building crew-wide consistency and reducing waste Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Operational problem ownership — identifies workflow inefficiencies in planting or irrigation sequences and reorganizes crew tasks to optimize field-wide productivity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task reflection — identifies personal errors in crop sorting or labeling and adjusts technique before the next row or tray Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning awareness — recognizes gaps in knowledge about specific crop varieties or chemical handling and seeks guidance from experienced workers Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill self-monitoring — tracks personal harvesting speed and accuracy against crew benchmarks and modifies body mechanics or grip technique to improve output Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Instruction processing — pauses to confirm understanding of supervisor directions before beginning transplanting or irrigation setup tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Seasonal knowledge transfer — reflects on lessons learned from previous growing seasons to anticipate common crop stress indicators, pest pressures, and equipment failure patterns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Chemical application self-audit — reviews own pesticide log entries for completeness and accuracy before submission to farm management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Adaptive learning planning — systematically evaluates personal and crew performance across crop cycles to identify training needs and develop targeted skill-building strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive load management — structures complex multi-crop workdays by mentally sequencing irrigation, transplanting, and harvest tasks to reduce error and physical fatigue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Plant health observation — identifies visible signs of disease, pest damage, or water stress in crops and distinguishes them from normal growth variation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment malfunction recognition — notices abnormal sounds or performance in farm machinery and stops operation to report the issue O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Irrigation troubleshooting — evaluates soil moisture levels, emitter function, and crop response to determine whether irrigation schedules require adjustment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Harvest quality assessment — applies grading criteria to evaluate whether produce meets market standards before loading for storage or transport O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pesticide decision evaluation — analyzes crop damage patterns, pest identification, and product label requirements to determine appropriate chemical treatment timing and rate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crop record analysis — reviews yield data and input cost records across fields or varieties to identify performance trends and inform management recommendations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Multi-variable crop problem diagnosis — integrates soil chemistry data, weather patterns, biological pest cycles, and crop physiology to diagnose complex field problems and propose evidence-based interventions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-harvest loss analysis — evaluates storage conditions, handling procedures, and grading outcomes to pinpoint root causes of crop degradation and recommend corrective protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Row team cooperation — coordinates body positioning and movement with adjacent harvesters to maintain row flow and avoid collision during hand harvest Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool sharing — communicates equipment needs and timing with crew members to ensure shared tools and implements are available at the right stations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Planting crew synchronization — coordinates with teammates across transplanting, watering, and labeling roles to maintain consistent throughput in greenhouse or nursery operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sorting line coordination — works collaboratively with grading and packing crew members to maintain product flow and quality standards during post-harvest processing O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-functional field operations — collaborates with irrigation technicians, pest management staff, and harvest supervisors to align timing and resources across concurrent crop tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Seasonal crew integration — actively supports the inclusion and productivity of newly arrived seasonal workers by modeling correct technique and sharing field knowledge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Multi-crew harvest orchestration — coordinates across multiple specialized crews during peak harvest to synchronize picking, grading, transport, and storage activities with minimal downtime Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative problem resolution — leads group discussion among crew members and farm management to resolve conflicting priorities between planting schedules and equipment availability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Chemical handling accountability — follows pesticide safety protocols and PPE requirements consistently, even when not directly supervised Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accurate reporting — records crop data and pesticide use truthfully without omitting inconvenient information Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Food safety integrity — maintains produce handling hygiene standards and reports contamination risks immediately rather than concealing them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment stewardship — reports maintenance issues and handles farm tools and machinery responsibly to prevent avoidable damage O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulatory compliance ownership — adheres to pesticide application regulations, worker protection standards, and record-keeping requirements without requiring external enforcement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crop loss transparency — reports harvest yields, waste rates, and quality failures accurately to farm management even when outcomes are below expectations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical crew oversight — holds seasonal workers accountable to safety and quality standards through respectful, consistent enforcement rather than selective application Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Environmental stewardship advocacy — proactively identifies and reports chemical runoff risks, soil compaction, or irrigation waste that threaten long-term farm sustainability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Field problem improvisation — devises a temporary field-level solution when standard equipment or tools are unavailable during planting or irrigation setup Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Harvest technique adaptation — modifies hand harvest grip or posture to address unusual crop growth patterns or terrain challenges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Efficiency innovation — proposes a modified row sequencing or crew positioning approach that reduces walking distance and increases harvest throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Greenhouse organization — devises a new labeling or potting layout that improves plant identification accuracy and reduces transplanting errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Irrigation system adaptation — engineers a modified drip or sprinkler configuration to address uneven water distribution across irregular field topography Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pest management creativity — identifies and tests non-chemical deterrent methods such as physical barriers or companion planting to reduce pest pressure in specific crop zones Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process redesign — develops an improved post-harvest handling workflow that reduces crop damage rates during grading, sorting, and storage transitions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-crop knowledge application — applies biological or mechanical knowledge from one crop type to develop novel handling or growing techniques for a newly introduced variety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts correction from supervisors on harvesting technique or crop handling without defensiveness and applies the adjustment immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. New crop openness — approaches unfamiliar plant varieties or nursery species with curiosity and asks questions to build working knowledge quickly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill expansion effort — voluntarily practices irrigation setup, equipment maintenance, or grafting techniques outside primary assigned role to broaden farm competency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Seasonal challenge persistence — maintains consistent effort and quality standards during physically demanding peak harvest periods without reducing engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Failure-to-learning conversion — analyzes crop losses, equipment failures, or yield shortfalls as learning opportunities and documents corrective actions for future growing cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Technology adoption — embraces new farm equipment, irrigation control systems, or crop monitoring tools introduced by farm management and achieves operational proficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Continuous improvement modeling — demonstrates commitment to expanding agronomic, mechanical, and safety knowledge across seasons and actively shares new learning with crew members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-training leadership — pursues mastery in multiple farm operation areas including machinery repair, chemical application, and nursery management to become a versatile resource for farm leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical fatigue awareness — recognizes early signs of heat stress or muscle fatigue during field work and communicates need for a break before safety is compromised Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Chemical exposure attention — maintains deliberate awareness of wind direction and personal protective equipment integrity during pesticide application tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Crop condition presence — sustains focused observation of plant health indicators across long harvest rows, detecting subtle changes in color, texture, or size that signal quality or disease issues Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment operation attention — maintains concentrated awareness of machinery sounds, vibrations, and controls during tractor or irrigation equipment operation to catch anomalies early Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pace and quality balance — regulates harvest speed intentionally to maintain produce quality standards under productivity pressure, avoiding rushed handling that causes bruising or damage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotionally regulated crew interaction — manages frustration or fatigue during high-pressure planting or harvest periods to maintain respectful and productive communication with crew members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Field-wide situational awareness — simultaneously monitors crop conditions, crew safety, equipment performance, and weather indicators across large field operations with sustained intentional attention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress regulation under adversity — models calm, methodical decision-making during crop emergencies such as unexpected frost, equipment breakdown, or sudden pest outbreak to stabilize crew performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance initiation — completes assigned harvesting or planting tasks through physical discomfort associated with repetitive motion, heat, or outdoor weather exposure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — continues productive field work during periods of ambiguous crop health status while awaiting management guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Season-long persistence — maintains consistent work quality and attendance across an entire growing season including periods of extreme heat, cold, or heavy precipitation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment setback recovery — resumes productive field work promptly after an irrigation system failure or machinery breakdown without extended disruption to crew morale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Crop loss resilience — processes significant yield losses due to weather, disease, or pest events and redirects effort constructively toward salvage harvesting or replanting activities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained harvest endurance — maintains harvesting speed, quality standards, and safety compliance across consecutive twelve-hour peak harvest days without reduction in performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis leadership resilience — guides crew through extended high-stress scenarios such as multi-day frost mitigation or disease outbreak response, sustaining team morale and operational continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-season adversity navigation — draws on experience of repeated crop failures, labor shortages, and market disruptions to maintain long-term commitment to farming operations and mentor newer workers through comparable hardships Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Agriculture Laborer · Agriculture Worker · Apple Picker · Apple Thinner · Apple Turner · Asparagus Cutter · Bale Sewer · Baller · Bean Picker · Beet Topper · Beet Worker · Berry and Nut Harvester
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
SpeakingOperations Monitoring
Knowledge domains
Food ProductionBiologyMechanicalAdministration and ManagementChemistryMathematicsEnglish LanguageProduction and Processing
Abilities
Trunk StrengthArm-Hand SteadinessControl PrecisionMultilimb CoordinationExtent FlexibilityManual DexterityStatic StrengthFinger DexterityDynamic StrengthStamina
Work styles
DependabilityPerseveranceAttention to DetailIntegrityStress ToleranceCautiousness
Technology
Data base user interface and query softwareMobile location based services softwareElectronic mail softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing softwareInternet browser software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Record information about crops, such as pesticide use, yields, or costs.
  2. Direct and monitor the work of casual and seasonal help during planting and harvesting.
  3. Participate in the inspection, grading, sorting, storage, and post-harvest treatment of crops.
  4. Harvest plants, and transplant or pot and label them.
  5. Repair and maintain farm vehicles, implements, and mechanical equipment.
  6. Harvest fruits and vegetables by hand.
  7. Set up and operate irrigation equipment.
  8. Inform farmers or farm managers of crop progress.
CIP education codes
01.010101.010401.019901.030101.030201.0303

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.