Agricultural technician
Look after the machinery that keeps crops growing and farm animals thriving. You could also help with a variety of tasks such as soil sampling, carbon audits and animal welfare.
Also known as: crop technician, farm technician
About the job
What it's like
Are you passionate about animals and plants? Get involved in all aspects of a farming, forestry or horticulture business.
In some roles, you'll focus mainly on agricultural equipment and machinery. You'll do regular services to make sure things are working, and step in when they go wrong. For example, solving an electrical fault in a combine harvester.
But, you could have a much broader range of responsibilities. It could be as simple as day-to-day farming activities like looking after cows and driving tractors. Or it could be helping out with scientific research projects. For example, you may test soil or gather data on crop yields and weather patterns.
This role is perfect for someone who likes a hands-on job and has good problem-solving skills. If you have an interest in farming, forestry or horticulture – this could be the career for you.
Your tasks might include:
performing routine checks and repairs on farm equipment
investigating more complex mechanical issues
monitoring the health of animals and crops
gathering data for analysis, for example by carrying out tests on soil health
taking part in research projects, for example carrying out carbon audits
providing advice on fertiliser and pesticide application
Green job
In this job, you'll work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Lantra Scotland Careers Hub – training and skills for the land-based, aquaculture and environmental sector
Technicians | We make the difference – Joseph Whittick’s agricultural technician story
Technicians | We make the difference – Josh Misselbrook’s agricultural technician story
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Agricultural technician'
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Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- working with technology
- time management
- problem solving
- analysing
- adaptability
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- positive attitude
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Physics
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Geography
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Skills for Work: Rural Skills
You'll likely need qualifications gained through an apprenticeship or college course for this career. Some employers may value a degree, for example in a related area like agriculture .
Explore some routes you can take to get into this career.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships
If you’re aged 16 or older, a Modern Apprenticeship (MA) will let you work and earn while you study for a qualification. After you qualify, you'd be able to study further or move into a job.
You might find these MAs helpful:
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as a HNC or HND, can help you secure a job or move on to more advanced study.
Several colleges across Scotland offer HNC and HND courses in Agriculture.
Other subjects may be relevant, for example:
Applied Biological Sciences
Biology
Business
Environmental Management
Environmental Science
Life Sciences
Mechanical Engineering
Wildlife and Conservation Management
Use the My World of Work course search to find HNC or HND opportunities.
University
An Agriculture degree could be helpful for getting into this job.
You could also study subjects, such as:
Business
Biology
Biological Sciences
Environmental Management
Environmental Science
Life Sciences
Mechanical Engineering
Wildlife and Conservation Management
It’s a great idea to build some experience of working on a farm. For example, you could try and find a weekend or holiday job picking crops or helping with milk production. Use the My World of Work job search to find vacancies.
You'll likely need a driving licence as it allows you to drive the vehicles you work on, such as tractors. It'll also help you reach remote countryside locations.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Agricultural technician'
