Agricultural Equipment Technician Job Description

Agricultural Technicians: Experience, Education and Skills

A certificate in applied science or science-related technology is required for most agricultural technicians. Science technicians with a high school degree and no college degree can begin work as trainees and eventually earn a degree in science technology. Agricultural technicians need hands-on training on the job or in school.

The training programs combine the teaching of scientific principles and theory with practical hands-on application in a laboratory setting with up-to-date equipment, which is what most can get good career preparation through. Some employers prefer graduates of bachelor's degree programs in science who have experience in laboratories and internship experience, and also have held summer jobs in laboratories. Job candidates with extensive hands-on experience with a variety of laboratory equipment, including computers and related equipment, usually need a short period of on-the-job training.

Those with a high school degree and no college degree are usually the first ones to start work. Many people with a high school degree earn a two-year degree in science technology at their employer's expense. The direct supervision of a scientist or more experienced technician is what technicians usually begin work under.

As they gain experience, technicians take on more responsibility and carry out assignments under general supervision, and some eventually become supervisors. At least 2 years of specialized training or an associate degree in applied science or science-related technology is required for agricultural technicians. Some science technicians have a bachelor's degree in chemistry or biology and have completed several science and math courses at a college.

Communication skills are important because technicians are often required to report their findings in writing. The technicians should be able to work well with others. Strong computer skills are important for technicians in research and development laboratories.

Agricultural Technicians

Agricultural technicians test seeds to see if they are viable. They collect seeds, grow them, and maintain them. Agricultural technicians transplant plants.

They determine the rate at which a plant grows. Agricultural technicians are studying ways to increase productivity. They collect crop or animal samples to be tested for disease or to confirm scientific experiments.

They also perform agricultural labor. Food science technicians are looking at new techniques. They inspect food, chemicals, and Additives, analyze test results, and prepare presentations to share their findings.

Agricultural and food science technicians work in laboratories, processing plants, farms and ranches, and offices. Workers may be exposed to loud noise, extreme temperatures, and odors. They are active throughout the day.

The Career Outlook of Agricultural and Food Science Technicians

An associate's degree in biology, chemistry, crop or animal science is required for agricultural and food science technicians. Some positions require candidates to have a bachelor's degree, while others require a high school degree or equivalent. Over the decade, there are projected openings for agricultural and food science technicians.

Many openings are expected to be caused by the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire. Agricultural and food science technicians help agricultural and food scientists by measuring and analyzing the quality of food and agricultural products. Depending on the field the technician works in, they have a range of duties from performing agricultural labor to laboratory testing with significant amounts office work.

Food science technicians are looking at new production techniques. They make sure that products are fit for distribution or are produced efficiently. Food science technicians inspect food, chemicals, and Additives to determine whether they are safe and have the proper combination of ingredients.

Technicians work in a variety of settings, including laboratories, processing plants, farms and ranches, and offices. Technicians working in agricultural settings may face noise from machinery and extreme temperatures. They may need to be physically active for a long time.

Students interested in a career in agriculture or food science should take as many high school classes as possible. A solid background in applied chemistry, biology, physics, math, and statistics is important. Knowledge of how to use spreadsheets and databases is needed.

A Technician Apprenticeship in Agriculture

Some of the most technologically advanced machines in the agricultural equipment industry are maintained by technicians. If you enjoy working with ag equipment and mechanical problems, it is a great career choice. You will find your skills in demand at leading equipment dealerships.

You could work as a technician in a fully-equipped service centre or travel to farms and rural areas for service calls. You can transfer your skills to other industries. You will spend most of your time in the shop learning how to repair, modify, and assemble a wide range of equipment.

You will get a two-week work experience in an agricultural dealership after you finish your program. It's a great chance to get to know a potential employer and build your skills. There is demand for agricultural equipment technicians.