Agricultural Technicians
Work with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments. Conduct tests and experiments to improve yield and quality of crops or to increase the resistance of plants and animals to disease or insects.
Agricultural Technicians earn a median of $23.86/hr — about $49,500 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $17.30/hr; the top 10% earn $36.77/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Prepare land for cultivated crops, orchards, or vineyards by plowing, discing, leveling, or contouring.
- Operate farm machinery, including tractors, plows, mowers, combines, balers, sprayers, earthmoving equipment, or trucks.
- Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
- Maintain or repair agricultural facilities, equipment, or tools to ensure operational readiness, safety, and cleanliness.
- Perform crop production duties, such as tilling, hoeing, pruning, weeding, or harvesting crops.
- Collect animal or crop samples.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Associate degree. Overall preparation: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
The feel of the work
Much of the work happens outdoors. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 5.2% of agricultural technicians are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are hands-on, analytical and organized and detail-focused.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Urban and Regional Planners
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
- Chemists
- School Psychologists
- Biological Scientists, All Other
Quick questions
- How much does a agricultural technician make?
- The median pay is $23.86 per hour — roughly $49,500 a year, with the real range running from about $17.30/hr (10th percentile) to $36.77/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a agricultural technician?
- The typical entry-level education is: Associate degree. Overall preparation level: medium preparation (Job Zone 3 of 5).
- What does a agricultural technician actually do all day?
- Prepare land for cultivated crops, orchards, or vineyards by plowing, discing, leveling, or contouring. Operate farm machinery, including tractors, plows, mowers, combines, balers, sprayers, earthmoving equipment, or trucks. Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
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