Employers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently about 1,600 Agricultural Engineers working in the United States. While small in number, professionals in this field are expected to experience employment growth of 6% from 2022 to 2032, resulting in the addition of 100 new jobs.

USDA employs federal agricultural consultants to assist county extension officers and supervisors in planning, developing, and coordinating national, regional, and state extension programs. These consultants are headquartered in Washington, D.C. County agricultural agents may be employed jointly by the Department of Agriculture and the agricultural college in each state.

County agents may also specialize, especially in counties with more than two or three agents. Many counties with diverse agricultural businesses and farms will often have five or more agents. A single county may employ specialists in fruit and grain production, dairy, poultry production, farm machinery, pest control, soils, nursery management, conservation, and livestock.

Starting Out

Professionals working for the United States Department of Agriculture usually begin their career at the GS-5 level, a government pay grade. The agricultural consultants can then progress through the government pay grades as they gain more education and experience, leading to higher earnings. Many professionals in the United States Department of Agriculture begin their career at the GS-5 level, which is a government pay grade. As agricultural consultants gain more experience and education, they advance to higher government pay grades, which results in higher pay.

Individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge as consultants are typically promoted early and quickly in their professions. These promotions may take multiple forms, such as higher positions of responsibility within the same county, relocation to a different county within the state, or even a salary raise. After completing a series of progressively more challenging extension jobs, many agents become part of the staff of the state agricultural college. Many individuals currently holding positions as extension services directors began their careers this way. Agricultural consultants can also explore other fields. They frequently work in related professions, particularly those related to farm products. Their background in agriculture and the training they have received make them outstanding candidates for a wide range of jobs in the agricultural sector.

Use social media such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and X to stay up to date on industry developments, network, and learn about job openings. There are many agricultural-related groups on LinkedIn that can provide networking opportunities and information on trends in the field.

Participate in agriculture-related internships or part-time jobs that are arranged by your college’s career services office.

Conduct information interviews with agricultural consultants and ask them for advice on preparing for and entering the field.