How to find a reliable tractor or harvester operator (driver) for hire?

Good operators are found mostly by word of mouth, so start by asking other machine owners, your dealer and the local custom hiring centre for names. Other sources are nearby ITIs and agricultural skill training centres that run tractor and farm machinery operator courses, and the operators who already drive combines for contractors in your area during season. When you hire, check three things: ask to see them actually operate before fixing them, ask previous employers about how they treat machines and fuel, and agree clearly on monthly pay or per acre rate, working hours and who pays for breakdowns caused by misuse. A careful operator who saves diesel and avoids damage is worth paying a bit more than the cheapest one. Many owners keep the same operator year after year by paying fairly and on time.