Explore Your Agriculture Career Options: 22 In-Demand Careers to Consider and How to Pursue Them
Agriculture is a vast and diverse industry that offers a wide range of career options for individuals with different skill sets and interests. In this agriculture careers list, we will be showing 22 careers, along with their respective salaries.
The salary figures have been sourced from reputable sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), GlassDoor and ZipRecruiter.
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1. Agricultural Engineer
Median salary: $82,640
Responsibilities: An agricultural engineer applies engineering principles to agricultural production and processing, designing equipment, structures, and systems.
2. Agricultural Economist
Median salary: $80,129
Responsibilities: An agricultural economist analyzes and forecasts economic trends and policies that affect the agricultural industry.
3. Agronomist
Median salary: $74,160
Responsibilities: An agronomist studies plant science and soil science to develop techniques and technologies that improve crop production.
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4. Farm Manager
Median salary: $73,060
Responsibilities: A farm manager oversees the daily operations of a farm, including planning, budgeting, and personnel management.
5. Agricultural Sales Representative
Median salary: $62,890
Responsibilities: An agricultural sales representative sells agricultural products and services to farmers and other agricultural businesses.
6. Agricultural Scientist
Median salary: $74,160
Responsibilities: An agricultural scientist conducts research to improve agricultural production, sustainability, and food safety.
7. Animal Breeder
Median salary: $29,680
Responsibilities: An animal breeder uses genetics to improve the quality and characteristics of livestock, poultry, and other animals.
8. Crop Consultant
Median salary: $74,160
Responsibilities: A crop consultant advises farmers on crop selection, soil management, and other farming practices to improve crop yields.
9. Precision Agriculture Technician
Median salary: $44,020
Responsibilities: A precision agriculture technician uses technology to optimize farming practices, such as precision planting, variable rate fertilization, and GPS-guided equipment.
10. Agricultural Journalist
Median salary: $48,370
Responsibilities: An agricultural journalist writes and reports on news and trends in the agricultural industry, such as new technologies, policy changes, and environmental issues.
11. Soil Scientist
Median salary: $66,750
Responsibilities: A soil scientist studies soil properties, composition, and management techniques to optimize crop growth and sustainability.
12. Agricultural Biotechnologist
Median salary: $48,140
Responsibilities: An agricultural biotechnologist develops new genetic technologies to improve crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases.
13. Agricultural Inspector
Median salary: $44,700
Responsibilities: An agricultural inspector enforces regulations and standards for food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection.
14. Agricultural Education Instructor
Median salary: $61,820
Responsibilities: An agricultural education instructor teaches agricultural sciences and prepares students for careers in the agricultural industry.
15. Agricultural Equipment Mechanic
Median salary: $53,770
Responsibilities: An agricultural equipment mechanic repairs and maintains tractors, harvesters, and other farm machinery. The median annual salary for an agricultural equipment mechanic is $50,860 (source: BLS – https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/mobile-heavy-equipment-mechanics.htm).
16. Agricultural Loan Officer
Median salary: $63,380
Responsibilities: An agricultural loan officer evaluates loan applications for farmers and other agricultural businesses and manages loan portfolios.
17. Horticulturist
Median salary: $74,160
Responsibilities: A horticulturist studies plant cultivation and propagation, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. The median annual salary for a horticulturist is $69,960 (source: BLS – https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/agricultural-and-food-scientists.htm).
18. Farm Hand
Median salary: $29,680
Responsibilities: A farm hand assists with various tasks on a farm, such as planting, harvesting, and caring for livestock.
19. Truck Driver
Median salary: $48,310
Responsibilities: A truck driver transports goods, including agricultural products, to and from farms and other locations.
20. Tractor Operator
Median salary: $38,380
Responsibilities: A tractor operator uses tractors and other heavy equipment to perform various tasks on a farm, such as tilling soil and harvesting crops.
21. Ranch Manager
Median salary: $73,060
A ranch manager oversees the daily operations of a ranch, including managing livestock, maintaining facilities, and managing finances.
22. Urban Farmer
Median salary: $39,904
Responsibilities: An urban farmer grows crops in an urban or suburban setting, often in community gardens or on small plots of land.
Conclusion
Agriculture offers a wide range of career opportunities for individuals with different skill sets and interests. From engineering and science to business and education, there are many exciting careers in agriculture that can be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling. This list of agriculture careers is a small sample of them.
The salaries listed here provide a general idea of what one can expect to earn in each respective field, but keep in mind that salaries can vary based on experience, location, and other factors.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in agriculture, it’s important to do your research and determine what field best aligns with your interests and skills.
Many colleges and universities offer degree programs in agriculture, and there are also vocational schools and apprenticeships available for those interested in more hands-on training.
Overall, the agriculture industry plays a critical role in our economy and society, providing food and other essential products to people all over the world. By pursuing a career in agriculture, you can be a part of this important work and make a meaningful contribution to your community and the world at large.