> > > Take a moment to consider the question, “What do you envision when you think of a career in agriculture?” Do you imagine farmers working on the land, planting crops, and harvesting with tractors? While these jobs are integral to agriculture, many more agricultural careers involve something other than being a farmer or rancher. As technological advances continue, new jobs that never existed before are being created, and we need individuals from all walks of life to fill these roles. In agriculture, many jobs do not directly involve growing crops or raising animals. For example, there are roles in power, structural, and technical systems that focus on creating and maintaining the tools used for agriculture. Alternatively, biotechnology jobs help enhance plants, animals, and microorganisms to have more desirable traits. The list of roles is endless, and we could go on and on. We need everyone’s talents and more people to enter the field to feed our expanding nation. Here are some less traditional agricultural jobs emphasizing everyone’s unique abilities and skills needed in agriculture. 1. AUTOMATION TECHNICIAN An automation technician installs, operates, and maintains computer/ robotic systems. They program and modify computer programming while continuously updating them. Additionally, they oer training on equipment software, troubleshoot machine problems and ensure safety compliance. In agriculture, you may find these technicians troubleshooting automated crop pickers in the field or working in the factories that create these machines. Is this Career Path for me? An automation technician role would be great for an individual who has a keen interest in electrical systems, mechanical components, and programming languages. Automation technology is constantly evolving, so this is an exciting role for those passionate about continuously learning and being on the cutting-edge of technology. Additionally, this role is excellent for someone who likes to work delicately with their hands. Education Typically, a degree in engineering, electronics, process control, or computer science of a related field is required. Common Employers Automation technicians may work on farms that employ automated systems to optimize crop production and livestock management. They are also commonly found in adjacent companies that install machinery in food processing and packaging facilities. 2. PRECISION AGRICULTURAL SPECIALIST Precision agriculture specialists provide support and technical assistance to growers using precision technologies on their farms. They support farmers by setting up tracking technologies such as Global Positioning Systems for soil sampling and developing information maps and recommendation maps. Additionally, they will analyze the data and make specialized recommendations on steps the growers should take after learning this information, such as what irrigation methods they should use and fertilizers. Is this Career Path for me? Becoming a precision agriculture specialist would be great for individuals looking to spend their time both in the oce and in the fields. Some days they will go out and visit farmers and help them set up technologies, while other days, they will process data at home. If you enjoy diversity in your role, then this might be the job for you. Education A bachelor’s degree in agricultural business, agronomy, agriculture, or engineering is recommended for this role. Additionally, a certified crop adviser certification may be required. Common Employers Precision agriculture specialists generally work for companies that provide farmers with precision equipment and software solutions. Additionally, they may work for agricultural retailers and co-operatives. 3. PLANT GENETICIST Plant geneticists conduct research to understand, improve or create new varieties of plants or crops. They will develop research plans, conduct experiments and publish the reports of their findings. A plant geneticist will look at a plant’s DNA and examine ways to improve the plant’s shape, size, production level, pesticide and disease tolerance. Is this Career Path for me? If you have an anity for science and plants, then becoming a plant geneticist might be the career path for you. Plant geneticists deal with data on a small scale, so they must pay meticulous attention to details conducting experiments, which could lead to inaccurate results. If you enjoy exploring the unknown, analyzing data, and keeping accurate records of your work, then this could be the career for you. By Veronica Hislop, Content Creator, FoodGrads.com Atypical Careers in Agriculture
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