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Agriculture

Agriculture Technician

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.

Annual openings

85

BLS median wage

$47,020

Typical education

Associate's degree

10-year growth

+10%

Career requirements

What does this career require?

The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.

Typical education

Associate's degree

Credential requirement

No specific credential listed yet

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

By analyzing data gathered from sensors, tractors and satellites, today’s farmers are able to track crop health, make planting decisions and guide fertilizer use to improve the efficiency of their businesses.
The trend towards precision agriculture is expanding the use of technologies such as GIS, drones, and satellite data.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

  • With kids/peopleOccasionally
  • On a computerOccasionally
  • Outdoors / on-siteOccasionally
  • With your handsOccasionally

Interests it draws on

  • Agriculture and Sustainability
  • Farming

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Prepare land for cultivated crops, orchards, or vineyards by plowing, discing, leveling, or contouring.
  2. Operate farm machinery, including tractors, plows, mowers, combines, balers, sprayers, earthmoving equipment, or trucks.
  3. Record data pertaining to experimentation, research, or animal care.
  4. Maintain or repair agricultural facilities, equipment, or tools to ensure operational readiness, safety, and cleanliness.
  5. Collect animal or crop samples.
  6. Examine animals or crop specimens to determine the presence of diseases or other problems.