Farm Crop Production Technicians

The employment outlook varies based on job title. For example, employment for agricultural technicians is expected to grow faster than the average for all careers through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The DOL says that "technicians also will continue to be needed to help analyze soil composition and soil improvement techniques, find uses for agricultural byproducts, and selectively breed crops to resist pests and disease or to improve taste." Opportunities should also be good for agricultural inspectors as more attention is paid to enforcing food safety regulations. Employment for biological technicians is expected to grow faster than the average. In the field of agriculture, biological technicians will be needed to conduct biotechnology research to create genetically engineered crops, as well as to develop alternative fuel sources such as biofuels and biomass. Employment for farm and home management advisers, an occupation that includes farm crop production technicians, is expected to decline by 2 percent through 2033.

For technicians interested specifically in orchard and vineyard production, the outlook may be somewhat brighter. Those technicians hoping to own or operate their own orchards or vineyards should remember, of course, that not all crops are necessarily good investments at all times. Local conditions, business cycles, and supply and demand must be considered when making decisions on the planting of a certain kind of orchard, grove, or vineyard.