Egg production is a crucial part of the U.S. agriculture industry, with millions of eggs produced daily to meet domestic and export demand. During peak seasons, farms require additional labor to collect, sort, and pack eggs efficiently. Egg picker jobs in the USA are ideal for foreign workers seeking temporary employment under seasonal visa programs, offering good wages, benefits, and practical agricultural experience.
This article covers all aspects of egg picker jobs in the USA in 2025, including job responsibilities, salary structure, eligibility, visa requirements, application process, and benefits.
Why Egg Picker Jobs Are in Demand
- High Production Volume: The U.S. produces billions of eggs annually, requiring consistent labor.
- Seasonal Hiring: Farms need extra workers during peak production and harvesting periods.
- No Higher Education Needed: Jobs are open to unskilled workers.
- Legal Work Opportunities for Foreigners: The H-2A visa allows temporary agricultural work.
- Stable Industry: Egg production remains consistent even during economic fluctuations.
Roles and Responsibilities of Egg Pickers
- Collecting Eggs: Gather eggs from hen houses efficiently and carefully.
- Cleaning & Sanitizing: Ensure eggs are clean and free from cracks or debris.
- Sorting & Grading: Separate eggs by size, quality, and type.
- Packing: Place eggs into cartons or trays for storage and transport.
- Record Keeping: Maintain logs of daily egg collection and output.
- Assisting Farm Staff: Support other farm duties as required, including feeding and cleaning poultry.
Salary Structure for Egg Picker Jobs in USA 2025
Compensation varies based on location, farm size, and employment terms.
| Job Role | Average Hourly Wage (USD) | Monthly Earnings (USD) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egg Picker | $12 – $16 | $1,800 – $2,600 | Free housing, meals |
| Sorting & Packing | $13 – $17 | $2,000 – $2,800 | Overtime pay |
| Poultry Support Staff | $12 – $15 | $1,900 – $2,500 | Housing, transport |
| Team Leader/Supervisor | $16 – $22 | $2,800 – $4,000 | Full benefits, incentives |
| Farm Helper | $11 – $14 | $1,700 – $2,300 | Meals, accommodation |
| Seasonal Worker | $12 – $16 | $1,800 – $2,600 | Overtime, housing |
On average, egg pickers in the U.S. earn $1,800 – $2,800 per month, depending on hours worked and farm location.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
- Education: No formal education required.
- Experience: Not mandatory for basic egg picking, but prior farm work is beneficial.
- Visa Requirement: Must apply under the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program if a foreign worker.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to lift and carry eggs, work in poultry houses, and stand for long hours.
- Language: Basic English is helpful but not required.
Documents Required to Apply
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months’ validity.
- Employment contract or job offer from a U.S. farm.
- Completed H-2A visa application form (for foreign workers).
- Recent passport-size photographs.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Resume or biodata highlighting any farm or manual work experience.
How to Apply for Egg Picker Jobs in USA 2025
- Through H-2A Visa Program: Secure employment with a certified U.S. farm.
- Recruitment Agencies: Licensed agencies connect foreign workers with farms.
- Online Portals: Websites like SeasonalJobs.dol.gov, AgCareers, and Indeed list seasonal farm jobs.
- Direct Farm Applications: Some large egg farms hire directly via their official websites.
- Government Listings: The U.S. Department of Labor maintains a list of certified H-2A employers.
Benefits of Egg Picker Jobs
- Legal seasonal work through the H-2A visa program.
- Free or subsidized housing and meals at many farms.
- Overtime pay during peak production periods.
- Opportunities to learn farm management and poultry care.
- Practical experience in the U.S. agricultural sector.
- Potential for extensions or return contracts in future seasons.
Challenges of Egg Picker Jobs
- Physically demanding with long hours and manual labor.
- Exposure to poultry house environments, including odors and dust.
- Seasonal work may only last 3–6 months.
- Limited career growth for entry-level pickers.
- Early morning shifts and weekend work are common.
Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Roles | Egg picker, sorter, packer, farm helper, supervisor |
| Salary Range | $12 – $22 per hour |
| Monthly Earnings | $1,800 – $4,000 approx. |
| Education Required | None |
| Visa Program | H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa |
| Benefits Offered | Housing, meals, transport, overtime pay |
Tips to Secure Egg Picker Jobs
- Apply early before peak production periods.
- Ensure employment is through a certified H-2A employer to avoid scams.
- Be physically prepared for labor-intensive work.
- Highlight any prior farm or poultry experience.
- Learn basic English for communication on the farm.
Conclusion
Egg picker jobs in the USA in 2025 are a valuable opportunity for foreign workers seeking legal seasonal employment in agriculture. With wages ranging from $1,800 to $2,800 per month and benefits such as housing, meals, and overtime pay, these roles provide both income and practical experience. While physically demanding, egg picking jobs offer a reliable pathway to work in the U.S. agricultural sector and can lead to repeat seasonal employment for motivated workers.
FAQs
Q1. How much do egg pickers earn in the USA?
Egg pickers earn between $12 – $16 per hour, averaging $1,800 – $2,800 per month.
Q2. Which visa is required for foreign workers to pick eggs in the USA?
Foreign workers must apply under the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa program.
Q3. Do farms provide housing for egg pickers?
Yes, many farms provide free or subsidized housing and meals for seasonal workers.