Agricultural Consultants

Agricultural consultants, sometimes known as agricultural extension service workers, live in rural communities and act as resources for farmers on a range of topics from agricultural technology to the issues facing the modern rural family. They are employed by either the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or by the department of agriculture and the agricultural colleges in that state. Agricultural consultants advise farmers on improved methods of agriculture and agricultural work such as farm management, crop rotation, soil conservation, livestock breeding and feeding, use of new machinery, and marketing. They assist individuals wishing to start their own farms, provide the most current agricultural advancements to the community, and speak to the community or local government groups on agricultural issues. They also supervise the work of family and community educators and young people's clubs such as 4-H, which is sponsored by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree

Certification/License

None

Outlook

Little Change or More Slowly than the Average

Personality Traits

Conventional

Helpful

Technical

Career Ladder

Director of Agriculture Extension Service or College Professor

Experienced Agricultural Consultant

Entry-Level Agricultural Consultant