Postcode:
Resident:
Employed:
A Wool Worker carries out various duties in a shearing shed to make sure operations are running smoothly. You may have to get sheep ready for shearing or return them to yards afterwards. Wool Workers may prepare wool for classing or assist with wool baling. You may have to perform other tasks as directed such as tidying up, maintaining equipment or running errands.
A Wool Worker needs to be physically fit and able to keep up with the demands of a busy shearing shed. You’ll need to be flexible and follow instructions from supervisors. Wool Workers should be able to handle animals and operate equipment when required. Wool Workers often work long hours during shearing season.
There are 3 courses available for people who want to become a Wool Worker.
Possible job outcomes:
Get your first job in the shearing sheds with the AHC21416 Certificate II in Wool Handling. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to pen sheep, perform board duties, carry out wool pressing, and assist your supervisor prepare sheep for shearing and crutching. You’ll also be introduced to the animal welfare and workplace safety protocols that protect both you, and the sheep. This course is often delivered on-the-job as part of an apprenticeship. Enquire now for the list of study units, wool handling competencies, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
Get the skills you need to work as a wool classer with the AHC33016 Certificate III in Wool Clip Preparation. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to appraise and class fleece wool, then prepare the wool for a clip. The course is delivered over 12-24 months and you’ll graduate a competent wool classer, ready to perform a range of shed duties to industry quality assurance standards. Enquire now for the latest enrolment dates and the full list of study units..
Average duration: 12 months.
Get started as a shearing shed hand or wool handler with the AHC33116 Certificate III in Advanced Wool Handling. This nationally recognised qualification is delivered over 2 semesters and teaches you how to prepare fleece wool for classing as well as carry out wool pressing. You’ll also learn a range of shed duties: penning sheep, preparing facilities for shearing and crutching, monitoring the welfare of sheep. Enquire now for the next batch intake dates and your nearest training centre..
In Australia, a full time Wool Worker generally earns $960 per week ($49,920 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of people employed as a Wool Worker has remained steady in recent years and there are currently 1,100 people working in this role in Australia. Wool Workers will usually find opportunities in rural and regional areas of Australia.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal – 2019 Occupation Projections
If you’re thinking about starting a career as a Wool Worker, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Advanced Wool Handling. This course covers topics including preparing wool for classing, wool pressing and carrying out shearing shed duties. A Certificate III in Wool Clip Preparation is also a suitable qualification and will prepare you to appraise and class fleece wool and prepare wool for the clip.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within livestock and animal production. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Livestock and Animal Production
Bore Runner
$960 weekly pay
Farmhand
Livestock Transporter
Pen Rider
Piggery Attendant
Poultry Farm Worker
Sheep Shearer
Sheep Shearing Trainer
Station Hand
Wool Classer
Wool Worker
Agribusiness Manager
$1,440 weekly pay
Dairy Farm Manager
Farm Manager
Organic Farmer
Station Manager
Stock and Station Agent
$1,150 weekly pay
Learn more about Wool Worker courses in your area.