Looking for honest, steady work abroad without needing a degree? Potato picking and grading jobs in Ireland in 2026 offer exactly that. Field workers earn around €11.50–€13.50 per hour (€1,800–€2,300/month), while grading and packing roles pay €12–€14 per hour (€1,900–€2,500/month).
With visa sponsorship, accommodation, transport, and overtime opportunities, these roles are ideal for foreigners ready to work outdoors, gain experience, and enjoy life in Ireland’s scenic countryside.
Why Potato Farming in Ireland Needs International Workers
Ireland’s agricultural sector, renowned for its potato production, faces a persistent labor shortage. As local workers gravitate toward urban jobs, farms across key counties like Wexford, Meath, Cork, and Tipperary increasingly rely on foreign labor to manage the harvest and year-round processing.
This creates a stable opportunity for reliable workers. The barrier to entry is low: physical fitness and a strong work ethic are more important than prior experience.
Job Overview: Picking vs. Grading
There are two primary types of roles, each with a different work environment:
1. Potato Picking (Field Work)
This is outdoor, physical labor during the harvest season (typically late summer to autumn).
- Duties: Harvesting potatoes by hand or assisting with machinery, collecting and sorting tubers, lifting and stacking bags/boxes.
- Conditions: Team-based work in all weather conditions; involves bending, lifting, and being on your feet for long periods.
2. Potato Grading & Packing (Shed Work)
This is primarily indoor, factory-style work that can be seasonal or year-round.
- Duties: Inspecting potatoes on conveyor belts, sorting by size and quality, removing defects, and packaging for retail or wholesale.
- Conditions: Less physically strenuous than field work but requires focus, consistency, and attention to detail.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
These roles are designed to be accessible. Employers typically look for:
- Age: Generally 18–50 years old.
- Health & Fitness: Ability to perform manual labour and work long hours.
- Language: Basic English skills sufficient to understand safety instructions and communicate with a supervisor.
- Background: A clean criminal record.
- Documents: A valid passport.
- Mindset: Reliability, punctuality, and a positive attitude toward repetitive tasks.
Formal education or specific experience is not required. Comprehensive on-site training is standard.
Visa Information for Non-EU/EEA Workers
To work legally in Ireland, non-EU/EEA citizens require an Employment Permit. For agricultural roles, the most relevant permit is the General Employment Permit.
- General Employment Permit: Covers most full-time roles, including lower-skilled agricultural work.
- Process: An Irish employer must sponsor you. They must first advertise the role in Ireland/EU to prove a labour shortage before offering it to you.
- Duration: Typically granted for two years and is renewable.
- Important Note: Ireland does not currently have a dedicated “seasonal agricultural visa.” Most farm work permits are processed under the General Employment Permit system, often for contracts of 6-12 months.
A reputable employer will guide you through the permit application process after making a formal job offer.
Salary & Benefits For Potato Picking and Grading
Pay is based on the Irish minimum wage, with potential for overtime.
- Hourly Wages:
- Field Picking: €12.70 – €14.50 per hour (Minimum Wage + potential sector premium)
- Grading/Packing: €13.00 – €15.00 per hour
- Overtime: Paid at a higher rate, typically after 39 hours per week.
- Estimated Monthly Earnings: €2,000 – €2,800+ (gross), depending on hours.
- Common Benefits:
- Accommodation: Often provided by the employer, either free or at a subsidised rate (€50-€100/week).
- Transport: To and from the worksite.
- Protective Equipment: Gloves, boots, and waterproof clothing.
- End-of-Season Bonus: Some farms offer bonuses for workers who complete the full season.
Key Locations for Employment
Potato farming is concentrated in specific regions. Top counties for hiring include:
- Wexford & Cork: Heartlands of large-scale commercial potato farming.
- Meath, Kildare & Louth: Significant production with proximity to packing facilities and Dublin.
- Tipperary & Donegal: Strong regional farming communities.
Accommodation is typically in shared, farm-provided housing in rural areas or nearby towns.
How to Apply for Potato Picking and Grading Jobs in Ireland
Step 1: Prepare Your Application Documents
- CV/Resume: Keep it simple. Highlight reliability, physical stamina, and any previous manual or outdoor work.
- Valid Passport.
- Reference Letters: From any previous employers, if available.
Step 2: Search for Opportunities
Use specific keywords on reputable job platforms:
- “Potato farm jobs Ireland permit sponsorship.”
- “Agricultural worker Ireland General Employment Permit”
- “Harvest jobs Ireland 2025”
Recommended Platforms:
- AgriRecruit.ie (Specialist agricultural recruitment)
- JobsIreland.ie (Official state jobs website)
- Indeed.ie
- Irish recruitment agencies specializing in seasonal or agricultural labor.
Step 3: Apply & Interview
Submit your application. If shortlisted, you will likely have a phone or video interview to discuss your suitability and availability.
Step 4: Job Offer & Permit Process
Upon receiving a formal job offer, your employer will initiate the Employment Permit application with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. You will then apply for an entry visa (if required) at your nearest Irish embassy/consulate.
Conclusion:
Potato picking and grading roles in Ireland represent a traditional yet accessible entry point for international workers seeking seasonal employment in Europe. With straightforward visa pathways, fair wages, and often-included benefits like accommodation and transport, these positions offer a blend of financial stability and cultural immersion.
While the work is physically demanding and weather-dependent, it provides a structured, team-oriented environment and the potential for seasonal return. By applying through official channels, preparing necessary documents, and approaching the opportunity with resilience, you can turn a harvest season into a memorable and financially rewarding chapter abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree to apply?
No. These roles are open to unskilled and semi-skilled workers. Physical fitness, reliability, and basic English are the main requirements.
What is the average salary for factory workers in U.S.?
General laborers earn $15–$18/hour, assembly line workers $16–$20/hour, machine operators $18–$23/hour, and quality control technicians $20–$25/hour. Overtime is paid at 1.5x.
