Agricultural Scientists

Agricultural scientists study all aspects of living organisms and the relationships of plants and animals to their environment. They conduct basic research in laboratories or the field. They apply the results to increasing crop and animal yields and improving the environment. Some agricultural scientists plan and administer programs for testing foods, drugs, and other products. Others work in public exhibits like zoos and botanical gardens. Agricultural engineers apply engineering principles to the food and agriculture industries. They design or develop agricultural equipment and machines, supervise production, and conduct tests on new designs and machine parts. Some agricultural scientists are professors at colleges and universities or work as consultants to business firms or the government. Others work in technical sales and service jobs for manufacturers of agricultural products. As of May 2023, approximately 15,800 soil and plant scientists, 14,100 food scientists and technologists, and 2,460 animal scientists were employed in the United States.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Master's Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Faster than the Average

Personality Traits

Curious

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Career Ladder

Research Program Supervisor or College Professor

Agricultural Scientist

Science Technician