What does an agricultural consultant do?
From livestock feeding programs, to controlling pests on crops, and refining soil conditions, an agricultural scientist helps improve productivity and sustainability within the agricultural industry. Similar to the work of agronomists, agricultural scientists collect and analyse data, produce samples, examine soil and investigate other factors that impact production. Using this data, they advise farmers on techniques that will help to yield the best results from their crops and livestock. As an agricultural consultant, you may work in a lab, office, field or a combination of these environments.Is a career as an agricultural consultant right for me?
If you’re interested in science and the environment, you may enjoy a career in agriculture as an agricultural scientist or agricultural consultant. Along with being highly observant and possessing strong analytical abilities, it would also be beneficial to have:
- good problem-solving skills
- strong oral and written communication skills
- the ability to work well within a team
- good organisational and supervisory skills.
How to become an agricultural consultant
There are many ways to begin your agricultural consultant career. Typically, the first place to start is by undertaking a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness or agricultural science or a related field.
Every journey to study is individual, there are several paths you can take to pursue your career in agriculture. At UniSQ, we offer the following agricultural degrees:
Source:
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
An agricultural consultants’ job description includes:
- Collecting and analysing data relevant to production. Samples used for analysis might include produce, fertiliser, feed and soil.
- Advising farmers and farm managers on techniques for improving the production of crops and livestock.
- Conducting site visits and assessments to analyse agricultural operations, identify inefficiencies and develop customised solutions.
- Offering guidance to farmers on issues such as livestock and crop disease management, pest and weed control, soil improvement methods, animal breeding practices and feeding programs.
An agricultural consultant career path can vary depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
Typically, a bachelor degree in agribusiness, agricultural science or another related field is required to start an agricultural consultant career. A bachelor degree takes about three years to complete, and if you choose to specialise through further postgraduate study this will increase your study time.