If you’re planning to work in Ireland as a backpacker or seasonal worker, potato picking and grading jobs are one of the best opportunities available in 2026. Ireland’s climate is ideal for potato farming, and with year-round harvesting seasons across multiple regions, employers are constantly seeking foreign workers and visa holders to fill positions on farms.
These roles are especially popular among Working Holiday Visa holders looking for a second- or third-year visa extension, but they’re also open to international candidates on seasonal work or student visas. One leading employer in this sector is Kilmore Potatoes Ltd, located in County Wexford, Ireland’s largest potato-producing region.
Job Overview
- Country: Ireland
- Location: Kilmore, County Wexford
- Employer: Kilmore Potatoes Ltd
- Industry: Agriculture / Farm Work
- Job Titles: Potato Harvest Worker / Potato Picker / Potato Grader
- Job Type: Part-Time / Rotating Shift Basis
- Experience Required: None
- Education Required: Basic (not mandatory)
- Visa Sponsorship: Varies by employer
- Eligible Visas: Working Holiday (2nd / 3rd year), Seasonal Work Visa, Student Visa, Permanent Resident
- Accommodation: May be provided
- Expected Salary: €22.03 per hour + 15% PM loading
- Season: Available most of the year except during extreme weather
Why Potato Picking Jobs Are Ideal for Foreigners
Ireland’s agricultural economy relies heavily on seasonal and migrant labor. Potatoes remain the most widely grown crop in Ireland, and with multiple varieties maturing throughout the year, farms frequently hire foreign workers to meet demand.
Potato harvesting jobs are physically demanding but require no formal qualifications, making them ideal for:
- Working Holiday Visa holders seeking job experience and income.
- Backpackers looking for flexible, short-term contracts.
- Students or unskilled workers interested in agricultural work in Europe.
Requirements for Potato Picking & Grading Workers
While no prior experience is required, you must meet a few basic eligibility criteria:
- Physical fitness: Able to lift and carry bags weighing 2–20 kg.
- Work endurance: Capable of standing, bending, and climbing ladders for long periods.
- Flexibility: Willing to work rotating shifts and overtime.
- Teamwork: Cooperative attitude and ability to work in groups.
- Transport: Must arrange your own transport to and from the farm (no nearby public transport).
- Accommodation: Some employers provide on-site housing; others require self-arranged lodging.
- Experience: Previous farm or warehouse work is an advantage but not essential.
- Visa: Must hold a valid Working Holiday, Seasonal, or Student Visa.
Job Responsibilities
As a Potato Grader or Picker, your daily duties may include:
- Harvesting and collecting potatoes by hand.
- Inspecting potatoes for defects, rot, or damage.
- Grading potatoes according to size and quality.
- Cleaning, sorting, and packaging potatoes into 2–20 kg bags.
- Removing rocks, weeds, and debris from the fields.
- Preparing packaging material and maintaining stock records.
- Loading and stacking packaged potatoes without causing damage.
- Maintaining cleanliness and safety standards in the work area.
- Occasionally driving tractors or assisting in transport to storage sheds.
Training is provided on-site, allowing new workers to learn techniques directly during harvest days.
Benefits of Potato Picking & Grading Jobs
- Competitive Pay: €22.03 per hour + 15% evening shift allowance.
- Leave Entitlements: Paid leave and rest breaks as per Irish labor law.
- Year-Round Employment: Different potato varieties mean ongoing harvest seasons.
- Flexible Shifts: Three-week rotating roster (AM and PM shifts).
- Easy Entry: No education or experience required.
- Visa Opportunity: Ideal for Working Holiday Visa extensions (2nd and 3rd year).
- Open to All Nationalities: Workers from Asia, Africa, and Europe can apply.
About Potato Harvesting in Wexford County
Wexford County is Ireland’s main potato hub, famous for producing British Queen and Kerrs Pink varieties:
- British Queen: Distinct flavor, yellow-white skin, ideal for roasting, frying, and mashing. Peak season: July–August.
- Kerrs Pink: Traditional “Irish potato,” pink skin and floury flesh. Peak season: September–June.
This long harvest window ensures that potato picking jobs are available nearly all year in southern Ireland.
Related: Canadian Companies Offering Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Skills You’ll Gain
- Agricultural harvesting and grading experience.
- Machine operation and farm safety awareness.
- Packing, logistics, and quality-control skills.
- Time management and teamwork in a multicultural environment.
How to Apply for Potato Picking Jobs in Ireland
Follow these steps to apply for potato picking or grading jobs in Ireland with visa sponsorship:
- Visit the official job listing via the link below.
- Read the complete job description carefully.
- Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Prepare a CV and cover letter tailored for farm work.
- Submit your application through the employer’s website or email.
- Wait for confirmation or interview details from Kilmore Potatoes Ltd or another hiring farm.
Tips for Job Search
You can also find similar jobs using the following search keywords on online portals like Indeed, EURES, or IrishJobs.ie:
- “Farm Jobs in Ireland with Visa Sponsorship”
- “Potato Picking Jobs for Foreigners Ireland”
- “Agricultural Jobs in Wexford for Working Holiday Visa”
- “Vegetable Grading Jobs in Ireland 2026”
Set your location filter to Wexford, Ireland, and keep your resume updated to increase your hiring chances.
Final Thoughts
Potato picking and grading jobs in Ireland remain one of the most accessible agricultural opportunities for foreigners in 2026. They offer fair pay, flexible schedules, and a genuine pathway to visa extensions for backpackers and working holidaymakers.
If you’re motivated, physically fit, and ready for hands-on outdoor work, this is your chance to experience Irish farm life while earning well.