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Science

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.

Median salary (BLS)

$49,630

10th–90th percentile (BLS)

$36k – $76k

Job outlook

+4% (faster than average)

AI exposure

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports one wage for this occupational group, which covers 2 related roles — so read the median as an approximate group figure, and the range as the truer picture for this specific title. BLS source.

Early-career check: graduates of the matching programs below typically earn $119,000 ten years after starting college — an early-career figure, vs. the all-experience BLS median above. Source: U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.

Plan a path to Agricultural Technicians

Qualification costsStack incomeBest cities/statesSchool ROIJob-posting fitTailored resume

Education

Typical entry: Associate degree

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Typical progression

  1. Junior Agricultural Technicians

    Entry / Junior

    $35,980

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Agricultural Technicians

    Established

    $49,630

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Agricultural Technicians

    Senior

    $63,055

Key skills

A typical 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.
  • •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.

Fields of study

Any field

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