Agricultor familiar: o significado do trabalho na percepção dos produtores rurais

The objective of the study was to understand, from the workers' perspective, the meaning of work in family farming. The research is applied, observational and descriptive in nature, with qualitative analysis and discussion. The field of study was family farming establishments in the municipalities of Feliz and Linha Nova (Rio Grande do Sul). Five families working in family farming were interviewed, selected for convenience, totaling 13 participants. The narratives were grouped into three categories: Remuneration; Time organization; and Contact with nature. The results show that the long working hours resulting from the demands of pluriactivity take up most of the farmers' lives. Furthermore, the enhancement of the meaning of work was evident, expressed in the pleasure of living in the countryside in contact with nature. Access to training in business management may be essential for the best performance of the family business.