Agricultural Technicians

Also Called: Agricultural Research Technician, Laboratory Technician (Lab Tech), Research Associate, Seed Analyst

What Agricultural Technicians do

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.

  • Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
  • Measure or weigh ingredients used in laboratory testing.
  • Prepare data summaries, reports, or analyses that include results, charts, or graphs to document research findings and results.
Industry Areas:

Renewable Resources and Energy

Training Program Areas:

Forestry Conservation & Firefighting • Landscaping • Landscaping (HBI) • OCT-Only Renewable Resources & Energy • Petroleum Technician • Urban Forestry

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Work Context

  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
  • Contact With Others
  • Work With Work Group or Team
  • Electronic Mail

Tools

  • Animal husbandry equipment
  • Sprayers
  • Haymaking machinery
  • Cultivators
  • Incubators or brooders for poultry

Technology

Electronic mail software
Email software
Microsoft Outlook
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Data base user interface and query software
Data entry software
Microsoft Access

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Writing

Knowledge

Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
biology
Business
management
administrative services
Arts and Humanities
English language
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics

Education

  • 32% Master's degree
  • 29% Bachelor's degree
  • 18% Associate's degree

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Conventional (Organizer)
  • Investigative (Thinker)
  • Realistic (Doer)

Work Styles

  • Attention to Detail
  • Integrity
  • Dependability
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Achievement/Effort
  • Concern for Others

Values

  • Relationships
  • Support
  • Working Conditions

Abilities

  • Verbal
  • Ideas and Logic
  • Math

This is what Agricultural Technicians across the country typically make.

$14.79 / hour
$30,750 /year

Entry Level

$20.76 / hour
$43,180 /year

Median Level

$31.47 / hour
$65,470 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Average

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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