https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-XzfdJzgsE

 

What is the most rewarding part of this job?  The best part about this job is being able to work outside with different crops and equipment. It is also very rewarding to see how your work helps farmers, such as improving crop yields and creating cost effective solutions to everyday problems.

Background Information:  Agronomists can either work for cooperatives or be hired directly by crop growers as independent consultants. They will consult on seeds, fertilizer, crop protection and much more. Agronomists troubleshoot issues, providing specialist advice to farms on how to maximize yields and be the most cost effective at the same time. Agronomists also scout fields which involves walking through the fields and looking for different bugs, weeds, and unusual-looking crops as well as checking the crop growth.

Experience/Education Needed:  For this career, you should have some experience with crops and an understanding of biology and science. A degree in agronomy or crop science will give you the knowledge you will need and on-the-job training and internships will give you hands-on experience.

Average Salary Range: Depending on your skill set and years of experience, the average salary for this career can range from $30,000 to $70,000.

Career Roadmap: These are the steps one might take to get to this career.

Start by graduating high school and work towards a degree in agronomy or crop science. Gain experience through internships at agronomy companies/cooperatives. Strengthen your note taking and reporting skills and make sure to be detail oriented. Meet with bankers and nutritionists to help you understand all aspects of crop growing.