The agriculture sector employs professionals, researchers, and workers in a variety of agriculture jobs globally, in both rural and urban areas. Some sub-sectors can include farming, ranching, forestry, and fishing. So, how much does farming pay different employees in its workforce? Find out from the list of agriculture jobs and salaries.
Farming and agriculture-related careers can be sorted into 5 categories:
- Administrative
- Engineering
- Labour-intensive
- Business, sales, and marketing
- Science and research
- Agriculture jobs, opportunities & salaries
- 1. Agricultural consultant
- 2. Agricultural scientist
- 3. Agronomist
- 4. Animal nutritionist
- 5. Biosecurity officer
- 6. Ecologist
- 7. Environmental engineer
- 8. Farm manager (including other farming salaries)
- 9. Fisheries officer
- 10. Hydrogeologist
- 11. Laboratory technician
- 12. Marine scientist
- 13. Policy officer
- 14. Service Technician
- 15. Soil scientist
- 16. Sustainability consultant
- 17. Veterinary surgeon
- 18. Waste management officer
- 19. Water engineer
- Bottom Line: Agriculture jobs and career prospects should influence the farming courses you pick
- Agriculture & farming courses to kickstart your career
Agriculture jobs, opportunities & salaries
1. Agricultural consultant
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $63,940 (AUD $98,803 / CAD $90,019 / GBP £50,612 )
An agricultural consultant is a professional who provides expert advice to farmers and other agriculturalists on issues such as crop production, soil management, and animal husbandry. They may also offer marketing and financial advice, as well as help with the day-to-day running of farms.
Agricultural consultants typically have a degree in agriculture, although some may have qualifications in related fields such as agronomy or veterinary science. They may work for private companies, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Particularly, agricultural consultants are in high demand in countries such as Australia, where the agricultural sector accounts for a significant proportion of the economy.
2. Agricultural scientist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $74,160 (AUD $114,596 / CAD $104,408 / GBP £58,702 )
Agricultural scientists are responsible for studying and improving the methods used to produce and process agricultural crops. They work in a variety of fields, including research and development, teaching, government, and private industry.
Agricultural scientists typically have a college degree in an agricultural-related field, such as agronomy, horticulture, animal science, or plant pathology. They often work for state and federal government agencies, as well as privately owned agricultural companies. As such, agricultural scientists can find jobs in the areas of crop production or animal science.
3. Agronomist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $86,330 (AUD $133,401 / CAD $121,541 / GBP £68,335 )
An agronomist is a professional who helps farmers improve the quality and yield of their crops. In fact, this can involve anything from improving the soil to selecting the right variety of seed to planting at the right time. Besides that, agronomists may also work with livestock, helping to choose breeds that will thrive in the local climate and terrain, and providing feed and nutrition programs.
Agronomists are also important in the development of new crops, including genetically modified plants. Interestingly, the process of introducing a new variety is called “gene editing”, and researchers use this technique to introduce changes into crops that can make them grow better or resist certain diseases.
Not sure about agriculture careers being in demand in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States? Find out more here.
Agronomist Salaries in Various Countries
| Country | Average annual salary | Highest paying regions |
|---|---|---|
| Agronomists in Australia | AUD $84,753 (based on 25 reported salaries) | 1. Narrabri, NSW (above average) 2. Goondiwindi, Queensland (above average) 3. Tamworth, NSW (above average) 4. Griffith, NSW (above average) 5. Mildura, Victoria (above average) |
| Agronomists in Canada | CAD $64,544 (based on 27 reported salaries) | 1. Regina, SK (above average) 2. Saskatoon, SK (above average) 3. Swift Current, SK (above average) 4. Edmonton, AB |
| Agronomists in the United Kingdom | GBP £35,694 (based on 17 reported salaries) | 1. Scarborough (above average) 2. London (above average) 3. Cambridge (above average) 4. Aberdeen (above average) 5. Bath (above average) |
| Agronomists in the United States | USD $71,462 (based on 391 reported salaries) The salary noted here is an average, not median. That is why it differs noticeably from the BLS salary, which uses a statistical median (the mid-point of all salaries recorded). | Not given |
4. Animal nutritionist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $65,090 (AUD $100,580 / CAD $91,638 / GBP £51,522 )
An animal nutritionist is a professional who helps to ensure that animals are getting the right types and amounts of nutrients in their diets. Not only do they work with farmers to develop feed plans for livestock but they also work in research institutions to study the effects of various dietary supplements on animal health. Interestingly, animal nutritionists may also be involved in developing new products for the pet food industry.
In any case, the role of animal nutritionists is growing in importance as more people become interested in eating organic and sustainable foods (livestock).
5. Biosecurity officer
A biosecurity officer is a vital member of the agricultural community. They chiefly work to protect crops and livestock from disease and pests, which can devastate a farm or agricultural business.
Hence, biosecurity officers typically have a degree in agriculture and may have completed courses in animal health, plant pathology, and entomology. They may also have experience in farming or ranching.
6. Ecologist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $76,530 (AUD $118,258 / CAD $107,744 / GBP £60,578 )
An ecologist is a scientist who studies the relationships between plants, animals and their environment. Ecologists are generally interested in understanding how human activities impact ecosystems. Furthermore, they are also interested in how ecosystems can be used to provide goods and services that benefit humans.
As a matter of fact, many ecologists work in academia, conducting research in universities and colleges. However, ecologists are also employed by government agencies, non-profit organizations and private companies.
7. Environmental engineer
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $96,820 (AUD $149,611 / CAD $136,310 / GBP £76,638 )
Environmental engineering is the application of science and engineering principles to protect and improve the environment. Environmental engineers design systems and processes to remediate environmental problems such as air pollution, water contamination, and hazardous waste disposal. They also work to prevent future environmental problems by designing sustainable solutions for agriculture, industry, and municipalities.
Occasionally, environmental engineers may also work to improve natural resources. For example, they might be involved in projects that increase forest coverage or help farmers use water more efficiently. Besides that, they may also work with land management agencies to help clean up polluted land and restore it to its original state.
8. Farm manager (including other farming salaries)
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $73,060 (AUD $112,896 / CAD $102,859 / GBP £57,831 )
| Country | Average annual salary | Highest paying regions |
|---|---|---|
| Farm managers in Australia | AUD $83,901 (based on 100 reported salaries) | 1. Hay, NSW (above average) 2. Brisbane, Queensland (above average) 3. Balranald, Queensland (above average) 4. Alice Springs, Northern Territory 5. Goroke, Victoria |
| Farm managers in Canada | CAD $54,695 (based on 176 reported salaries) | 1. Langley, BC (above average) 2. Keremeos, BC (above average) 3. Pitt Meadows, BC (above average) 4. Surrey, BC (above average) 5. Chilliwack, BC (above average) |
| Farm managers in Ireland | EUR €42,843 (based on 29 reported salaries) | 1. Carlow, County Carlow (above average) 2. Cork, County Cork (above average) |
| Farm managers in New Zealand | NZD $64,329 (based on 3 reported salaries; not statistically sufficient) | Not statistically significant |
| Farm managers in the United Kingdom | GBP £28,446 (based on 219 reported salaries) | 1. Norwich (above average) 2. Thetford (above average) 3. Lincoln (above average) 4. Attleborough 5. York |
| Farm managers in the United States | USD $48,159 (based on 635 reported salaries) The salary noted here is an average, not median. That is why it differs noticeably from the BLS salary, which uses a statistical median (the mid-point of all salaries recorded). | 1. San Francisco, CA (above average) 2. New York, NY (above average) 3. Albany, NY (above average) 4. Phoenix, AZ (above average) 5. Fresno, CA |
Farm managers are responsible for the overall operations of a farm and they may be involved in crops, livestock, or forestry. Farm managers may also work with food production, environmental protection, and agricultural research jobs in Australia. Further, they may also oversee a farm’s financial operations, purchase equipment, and maintain the physical layout of the farm. Hence, farm managers typically have a college degree in agriculture or a related field.
How much does farming pay?
While farm managers typically get the median salary above, agriculture workers (or farm hands) who do the labor-intensive work get a median annual wage of USD $29,680 (AUD $45,863 / CAD $41,786 / GBP £23,493 ) in the United States, based on US Bureau of Labor Statistics data in 2021.
Notably, on the higher end of the annual median farming salaries of agriculture workers are:
- Animal breeders: USD $40,090 (AUD $61,949 / CAD $56,442 / GBP £31,733 )
- Agriculture equipment operators: USD $36,360 (AUD $56,185 / CAD $51,190 / GBP £28,781 )
Farm workers’ wages in various countries
Let’s take a look at the hourly wages in various countries.
| Country | Average Hourly wage | Highest paying regions |
|---|---|---|
| Farm workers in Australia | AUD $31.68 per hour (based on 45 reported salaries) | 1. Warwick Farm, NSW (above average) 2. Canowindra, NSW (above average) 3. Orange, NSW (above average) 4. Sydney, NSW (above average) 5. Melbourne, Victoria |
| Farm workers in Canada | CAD $15.76 per hour (based on 2,600 reported salaries) | 1. Wilkie, SK (above average) 2. Ripley, ON (above average) 3. Abbotsford, BC (above average) 4. Aldergrove, BC (above average) 5. Surrey, BC (above average) |
| Farm workers in Ireland | EUR €14.97per hour (based on 25 reported salaries) | 1. Carlow, County Carlow (above average) 2. Louth, County Louth (above average) 3. Waterford, County Waterford (above average) 4. Tipperary, County Tipperary (above average) 5. Cork, County Cork |
| Farm workers in New Zealand | NZD $26.78 per hour (based on 4 reported salaries; not statistically sufficient) | Not statistically significant |
| Farm workers in the United Kingdom | GBP £10.33 per hour (based on 420 reported salaries) | 1. Chichester (above average) 2. Crieff (above average) 3. Gretna 4. Norwich 5. Chester |
| Farm workers in the United States | USD $15.80 per hour (based on 538 reported salaries) | 1. Brighton, CO 2. Eureka, CA 3. Bay, AR 4. Middleburg, VA 5. Bowling Green, KY |
Learn more about the rising expenses in conventional farming, which may contribute to the lower farming saleries of agriculture workers.
9. Fisheries officer
As the name suggests, a Fisheries Officer’s job is focused on looking after fisheries. These, basically, are areas where fish are farmed or caught for human consumption. Hence, the role of a fisheries officer is to manage the resources in these areas and make sure that they are being used sustainably. In reality, this means ensuring that fishing quotas are not exceeded, working to protect habitats and species, and managing populations of fish.
Fisheries officers may either work for government agencies or private companies. Furthermore, they may be responsible for managing a single fishery or overseeing several different fisheries. Like some agriculture jobs, the work can be both office-based and outdoors, and it can involve travelling to different parts of the country or even overseas.
Salary of Fishery Managers in Various Countries
| Country | Average annual salary | Highest paying regions |
|---|---|---|
| Fisheries Manager in Australia | AUD $111,806 (based on 62 reported salaries) | 1. Thursday Island, Queensland (above average) 2. Illawarra, NSW 3. Perth, Western Australia 4. Sydney, NSW 5. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory |
| Fisheries Manager in Canada | CAD $68,739 (based on 14 reported salaries) | 1. Truro, NS (above average) 2. Vancouver, BC (above average) |
| Fisheries Manager in the United Kingdom | GBP £28,450 (based on 13 reported salaries) | 1. Glasgow (above average) 2. London (above average) 3. Douglas (above average) |
| Fisheries Manager in the United States | USD $72,871 (based on 10 reported salaries) The salary noted here is an average, not median. That is why it differs noticeably from the BLS salary, which uses a statistical median (the mid-point of all salaries recorded). | 1. Juneau, AK (above average) 2. Honolulu, Hawaii 3. Gloucester, MA 4. Newport News, VA |
Learn more about the business and career prospects of fish farming and aquaculture.
10. Hydrogeologist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $84,030 (AUD $129,847 / CAD $118,303 / GBP £66,514 )
A hydrogeologist is a professional who studies water in the earth’s subsurface. They work with farmers to help them find and use groundwater for irrigation and also work on environmental projects to protect water resources.
Hence, hydrogeologists need a strong background in math and science, and typically have a degree in hydrogeology or a related field. Many hydrogeologists work for government agencies or consulting firms, but there are also opportunities in the private sector.
Some hydrogeologists work as aquifer technicians to study and monitor groundwater levels, while others are employed by environmental consulting firms. Some hydrogeologists also teach in colleges or universities, while others may be employed by government agencies that provide technical
11. Laboratory technician
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $57,800 (AUD $89,315 / CAD $81,375 / GBP £45,752 )
Lab technicians are responsible for performing a variety of tests and analyses on crops, livestock, and other agricultural products. They may also be responsible for maintaining and calibrating laboratory equipment. So, lab technicians typically have an associate’s degree in agricultural science or a related field.
In terms of industries, laboratory technicians may work in food processing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and animal nutrition.
Lab technicians typically have an associate’s degree or higher in a scientific discipline, although some positions may require only a high school diploma. They must be able to work well independently as well as part of a team, and must be able to follow detailed instructions.
12. Marine scientist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $64,650 (AUD $99,900 / CAD $91,019 / GBP £51,174 )
A marine scientist is someone who studies the biology and ecology of aquatic ecosystems, including both marine and freshwater systems. Marine scientists may work in a variety of fields, such as agriculture, fisheries, or environmental science. Many marine scientists have degrees in agriculture courses, but jobs in this field are also available to those with backgrounds in mathematics, physics, or engineering.
Marine scientists may work in a variety of settings, including research laboratories, universities, government agencies, and private companies. They may also work with environmental groups or consult with the public on issues related to marine resources.
13. Policy officer
A policy officer typically works for a government or other public sector organization, and their role is to develop and implement policies that will improve the effectiveness of the organization. This may involve working on agricultural policies, for example.
Generally speaking, policy officers are responsible for researching policy proposals, writing reports and briefing ministers on the options available. They also work with stakeholders (groups or individuals with an interest in the policy) to get their feedback and ensure that the proposal is fair and meets the needs of everyone involved.
14. Service Technician
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $46,910 (AUD $72,488 / CAD $66,043 / GBP £37,132 )
Service technicians are an important part of modern farming and agriculture. After all, they maintain and repair the equipment used in these industries, making sure that it is running smoothly and efficiently. This is a critical job, as malfunctioning equipment can cause serious problems for farmers and agricultural businesses. That is why service technicians must be knowledgeable about how to fix a wide variety of machines, and must also be able to work quickly and effectively under pressure. They often work long hours, especially during harvest season or other busy times.
Although service technicians typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, they may be required to complete an apprenticeship or other training. Further, they must be able to read schematics and diagrams and have strong mechanical skills.
15. Soil scientist
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $66,750 (AUD $103,145 / CAD $93,975 / GBP £52,836 )
Soil scientists are responsible for the management and conservation of soil resources. As a matter of fact, they conduct research on soils, develop methods to improve soil fertility and crop production and work to protect the environment. Hence, soil scientists may specialize in crop production, soil physics, soil chemistry, or land conservation.
In essence, soil science is a branch of agriculture that deals with the study of soils in relation to plants. It is a science that encompasses many disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, and geology. Soil scientists conduct research on soils to find ways to improve their quality and fertility so that they can be used for agricultural purposes. They also work to preserve the environment by developing methods to reduce soil erosion and degradation.
16. Sustainability consultant
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $75,810 (AUD $117,145 / CAD $106,731 / GBP £60,008 )
A sustainability consultant is a professional who helps organizations and communities to become more environmentally responsible and sustainable. Therefore, they work with clients to develop and implement strategies that improve environmental performance, conserve resources, and reduce waste.
Sustainability consultants may specialize in areas such as agriculture, energy, engineering, or architecture. Many sustainability consultants also have backgrounds in environmental science or policy.
17. Veterinary surgeon
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $100,370 (AUD $155,097 / CAD $141,308 / GBP £79,448 )
Veterinary surgeons are essential members of the agricultural community especially because they work to prevent and treat diseases that affect livestock. In order to become a veterinary surgeon, one must complete a rigorous course of study at an accredited veterinary school and pass a licensing exam. After graduating, they can find jobs in private practice, government agencies, or research institutions.
In many cases, veterinary surgeons also provide educational outreach to farmers and the public on best practices for animal care and husbandry. It is not uncommon for veterinarians to work after hours due to emergencies. This is perhaps one of many reasons why veterinary surgeons typically get paid significantly higher than other agriculture jobs.
18. Waste management officer
According to Indeed, Waste Managers earn an average salary of AUD $122,776 in Australia; CAD $106,005 in Canada; GBP £40,700 in the UK; USD $73,674 annually in the US.
A waste management officer oversees the handling, treatment and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes. This also includes agricultural byproducts. Unquestionably, waste management officers work in a variety of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing and mining. After all, the main goal of a waste management officer is to protect the environment by ensuring that all waste are disposed of safely and responsibly.
19. Water engineer
Median annual salary in 2021: USD $88,050 (AUD $136,059 / CAD $123,963 / GBP £69,696 )
Water engineers play an important role in the agriculture industry because they design and manage water resources for farming purposes. Water engineers typically have a degree in civil engineering, and many pursue additional coursework in agricultural engineering. There are many jobs available for water engineers, especially in the agriculture industry.
Bottom Line: Agriculture jobs and career prospects should influence the farming courses you pick
There are many different types of agriculture jobs and careers, and the demand for skilled professionals is high. If you are interested in a career in agriculture, there are many ways to get started. You can find programs at colleges and universities, or take courses online. There are also many apprenticeship and training programs available.
Agriculture degree programs and farming courses
Check out more degree programs at the end.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Agricultural and Food Scientists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/agricultural-and-food-scientists.htm#tab-5
- Agronomist salary in Australia (Indeed), https://au.indeed.com/career/agronomist/salaries
- Agronomist salary in Canada (Indeed), https://ca.indeed.com/career/agronomist/salaries
- Agronomist salary in United Kingdom (Indeed), https://uk.indeed.com/career/agronomist/salaries
- Agronomist salary in United States (Indeed), https://www.indeed.com/career/agronomist/salaries
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Environmental Scientists and Specialists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm#tab-5
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Environmental Engineers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/environmental-engineers.htm#tab-5
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/farmers-ranchers-and-other-agricultural-managers.htm#tab-5
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Agricultural Workers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/farming-fishing-and-forestry/agricultural-workers.htm
- Farm Manager salary in Australia (Indeed), https://au.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
- Farm Manager salary in Canada (Indeed), https://ca.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
- Farm Manager salary in Ireland (Indeed), https://ie.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
- Farm Manager salary in New Zealand (Indeed), https://nz.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
- Farm Manager salary in United Kingdom (Indeed), https://uk.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
- Farm Manager salary in United States (Indeed), https://www.indeed.com/career/farm-manager/salaries
- Farm Worker salary in Australia (Indeed), https://au.indeed.com/career/farm-worker/salaries
- Farm Worker salary in Canada (Indeed), https://ca.indeed.com/career/farm-worker/salaries
- Farm Worker salary in Ireland (Indeed), https://ie.indeed.com/career/farm-worker/salaries
- Farm Worker salary in New Zealand (Indeed), https://nz.indeed.com/career/farm-worker/salaries
- Farm Worker salary in United Kingdom (Indeed), https://uk.indeed.com/career/farm-worker/salaries
- Farm Worker salary in United States (Indeed), https://www.indeed.com/career/farm-worker/salaries
- Fisheries Manager salary in Australia (Indeed), https://au.indeed.com/career/fisheries-manager/salaries
- Fisheries Manager salary in Canada (Indeed), https://ca.indeed.com/career/fisheries-manager/salaries
- Fisheries Manager salary in United Kingdom (Indeed), https://uk.indeed.com/career/fisheries-manager/salaries
- Fisheries Manager salary in United States (Indeed), https://www.indeed.com/career/fisheries-manager/salaries
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hydrologists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/hydrologists.htm#tab-5
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/clinical-laboratory-technologists-and-technicians.htm#tab-5
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/zoologists-and-wildlife-biologists.htm#tab-5
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021, 49-3041 Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes493041.htm
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021, 19-1013 Soil and Plant Scientists, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes191013.htm
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Veterinarians, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinarians.htm#tab-5
- Waste Manager salary in Australia (Indeed), https://au.indeed.com/career/waste-manager/salaries
- Waste Manager salary in Canada (Indeed), https://ca.indeed.com/career/waste-manager/salaries
- Waste Manager salary in United Kingdom (Indeed), https://uk.indeed.com/career/waste-manager/salaries
- Waste Manager salary in United States (Indeed), https://www.indeed.com/career/waste-manager/salaries
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Civil Engineers, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/civil-engineers.htm#tab-5
Agriculture & farming courses to kickstart your career
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