How to Start a Career in Agriculture

The agriculture industry is evolving rapidly, offering a wide range of career opportunities beyond traditional farming. With advancements in technology, sustainability practices and global food demands, there’s never been a better time to explore jobs in agriculture. Whether you're interested in working directly with crops and livestock or prefer a role in agribusiness, marketing or insurance, agriculture careers are as diverse as they are rewarding.

Pathways to a Career in Agriculture

There are many ways to begin a career in agriculture, depending on your background, interests and goals. Here are a few common entry points:

Past Farming Experience

If you’ve grown up on a farm or have hands-on experience, you already have a strong foundation. But even if you’re new to the field, internships, apprenticeships and volunteer opportunities on farms can help you build the practical skills needed for farming. These experiences teach essential skills like crop management, equipment operation and animal care—skills that are highly valued across the industry.

Agriculture Education

Formal education can open doors to a wide range of agriculture careers. Many colleges and universities offer degrees in agricultural science, agribusiness, animal science and environmental studies. Certifications in areas like precision agriculture, soil science or farm management can also enhance your qualifications. Understanding the educational requirements of a farmer business is key to long-term success, especially if you plan to manage or own a farm.

Transition to Agriculture Career From Another Industry 

Thinking about a career change? Agriculture welcomes professionals from all backgrounds. Whether you have experience in finance, marketing, engineering or IT, your skills can be applied to roles in agri-finance, supply chain management or agricultural technology. Learning how to become a farmer or agribusiness professional may involve additional training, but the transition is often smoother than you might expect.

Job Options in Agriculture

Agriculture offers a wide array of career paths both on and off the farm. Here are just a few examples of high-demand jobs in agriculture:

• Agricultural Sales Representative: Connect farmers with the tools, equipment and products they need to succeed.
• Agriculture Insurance Agent: Help protect farms and agribusinesses from financial risk.
• Ag Marketing Underwriter: Assess and manage risk for agricultural insurance policies.
• Farm Management: Oversee the daily operations of farms, including budgeting, staffing and production planning.
• Technician: Work with cutting-edge agricultural technology, from GPS-guided equipment to data analysis tools.

Ready to Grow Your Future in Agriculture? 

Whether you're just starting out or looking to make a career change, Farm Bureau Financial Services is here to support your journey. Explore our resources, connect with local professionals and take the first step toward a fulfilling agriculture career today. Once you’ve landed on a path, you’ll want to make sure you’re protected. Talk with Farm Bureau today.