The poultry industry in the United States is one of the largest in the world, producing billions of eggs every year. To keep up with this demand, farms require a large workforce to handle different tasks, including egg collection. Egg picker jobs in the USA are some of the most essential entry-level roles in poultry farms, ensuring that eggs are collected, sorted, and packed for distribution. These jobs are in demand and often available to both local and foreign workers.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about egg picker jobs in the USA, including job roles, eligibility, salaries, benefits, and the application process.
Why Egg Picker Jobs Are in Demand
Eggs are a staple food in the U.S. diet, making poultry farms highly productive all year round. Egg picker jobs remain in constant demand because of:
- Large-scale commercial egg production.
- Labor shortages in rural poultry farms.
- Continuous year-round egg collection requirements.
- The need for workers who can handle manual and routine tasks.
Job Responsibilities of Egg Pickers
Egg picker jobs may vary slightly depending on the farm, but most workers are responsible for:
- Collecting eggs from poultry houses.
- Sorting eggs based on quality and size.
- Cleaning and placing eggs in trays or cartons.
- Monitoring birds while collecting eggs.
- Assisting in maintaining cleanliness in poultry houses.
This role is critical because timely collection prevents damage and ensures product quality for consumers.
Eligibility Criteria
Egg picker jobs are generally considered entry-level positions, which means they have fewer requirements compared to other farm roles.
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: No formal education required.
- Visa: Foreign workers may apply under the H-2A visa program for agricultural work.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to walk, bend, and carry trays for long hours.
- Experience: Not mandatory, but prior farm work is an advantage.
Salary and Wages
Egg picker jobs in the USA provide fair pay with additional benefits for foreign workers.
Average Salary Range:
- Hourly Wage: $12 – $16 per hour.
- Weekly Earnings: $450 – $600 depending on hours worked.
- Annual Salary: $25,000 – $32,000 for full-time workers.
Benefits:
- Free or subsidized housing for visa-sponsored workers.
- Transportation between housing and farm.
- Overtime pay during peak seasons.
- Health care support in some contracts.
- Meal allowances in certain poultry farms.
Application Process for Egg Picker Jobs
Foreign applicants typically apply through U.S. farms participating in the H-2A visa program.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Find Employers: Search for poultry farms or agencies offering egg picker positions.
- Apply Online: Submit a resume or basic job application.
- Employer Petition: Employer applies for H-2A labor certification with the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Visa Application: Apply for the H-2A visa at the U.S. embassy.
- Interview: Attend a visa interview and await approval.
- Travel to USA: Begin work once the visa is granted.
Challenges of Egg Picker Jobs
While egg picker jobs are stable, they do come with challenges:
- Repetitive tasks can be tiring.
- Exposure to poultry house odors and dust.
- Long working hours, including weekends or early mornings.
- Seasonal contracts for foreign workers may not provide permanent employment.
Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Type | Egg collection, sorting, cleaning, and packing |
| Visa Required | H-2A Temporary Agricultural Visa |
| Salary Range | $12 – $16 per hour (annual $25,000–$32,000) |
| Benefits | Housing, transport, overtime, health care support |
| Duration | 6–12 months (seasonal or renewable contracts) |
| Locations | North Carolina, Georgia, Arkansas, Alabama, Iowa |
Tips for Success in Egg Picker Jobs
- Wear protective clothing and gloves to maintain hygiene.
- Stay physically fit for long hours of walking and bending.
- Save money by using employer-provided housing and meals.
- Follow safety and biosecurity rules in poultry farms.
- Learn basic English for better communication with supervisors.
Conclusion
Egg picker jobs in the USA are an excellent starting point for individuals looking to enter the agricultural workforce. These roles may be simple, but they are essential in ensuring the smooth functioning of the poultry industry. With fair pay, housing support, and the chance to work abroad, egg picker jobs remain attractive to foreign workers under the H-2A visa program. While the work can be repetitive and physically demanding, it provides financial stability and valuable international experience.
FAQs
Q1: Can foreigners apply for egg picker jobs in the USA?
Yes, foreigners can apply through the H-2A visa program with employer sponsorship.
Q2: How much do egg pickers earn in the USA?
On average, egg pickers earn between $12 and $16 per hour.
Q3: Do U.S. poultry farms provide housing for egg pickers?
Yes, most employers provide free or subsidized housing for visa-sponsored workers.