Farm Crop Production Technicians

Employers

Approximately 19,600 agricultural technicians are employed in the United States. With a background in crop production, the farm crop production technician is able to find work in a variety of settings. Although some may work directly for farmers, most technicians work in businesses that support agriculture. They can work for feed and supply companies, inspection departments and other government agencies, nurseries, grain elevators, and farm equipment sales and service companies. They work under the supervision of agricultural scientists, farm managers, and agribusiness professionals.

Starting Out

Once you are in a postsecondary training program, you will be encouraged to decide as early as possible which phase of crop technology you prefer to enter, because contacts made while in school can be helpful in obtaining a job after the program's completion. You will find that students are often hired by the same firm they worked for during a work-study program. If that firm does not have a position open, a recommendation from the employer will help with entry to other firms.

Most faculty members in a technical program have contact with prospective employers and can help place qualified students. You can also take advantage of the services provided by your school's career services office, which arranges interviews between students and prospective employers.