Working on a farm can be rewarding
Agriculture has become a science with career opportunities on and off the farm. To progress beyond the farm worker level, qualifications and training are necessary. Several specialist careers exist and opportunities range from work in family-owned farms to employment at large businesses. Agriculture depends on a knowledgeable and technically proficient workforce.
Farmer
Farm workers, supervisors, managers and owner-managers work on a variety of farms. Arable farms grow crops for human consumption, such as cereal, fruit or vegetables, or for animal feed. Some farms raise livestock, such as cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, chickens or geese. Dairy farms concentrate on dairy herds and may process milk, cheese or yogurt. A mixed farm has both livestock and crops.
Agricultural Salesperson
An agricultural salesperson sells machinery, equipment or other supplies, such as seed, to farmers. Visiting farms and marketing merchandise at agricultural shows are major components of the job.
Agricultural Engineer
The engineer may be involved in the manufacture of farm machinery or in its maintenance and repair. He provides technical support to farmers buying equipment, which may include harvesters, tractors, sprayers and grain dryers. Working with drainage or irrigation systems may be part of the job.
Agriculturists
The agriculturist has scientific qualifications, often in biology or chemistry, he applies to researching methods of producing food. He investigates yields, analyzes soil and studies enviromental impact, often working in a specialist area such as dairy farming.
Agricultural Technician
The agricultural technician provides assistance to agriculturists by collating information and being a liaison between the agriculturist and the farmer. If the work involves research, the technician may be responsible for his own research program.
Agricultural Economist
The economist provides advice on efficient ways to run a profitable enterprise. He studies all aspects of food production and livestock and the production process as it runs through supplier, distributor and consumer.
Agricultural Inspector
The inspector typically specializes in an area of expertise. Meat inspectors visit abattoirs and ensure conditions are humane and meat is fit to eat. Plant inspectors investigate quality levels for products such as seeds, ensure that import and export rules are followed and monitor the control of plant diseases.
Agronomist
The agronomist works in the science of growing crops, investigating aspects such as irrigation, fertilization, harvesting and crop management. Manufacturers in the agriculture sector and educational establishments use this service.
Lecturer
Many university departments and agricultural colleges require lecturers in specific subjects relating to agriculture.
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