Agricultural Technicians

What the job involves

• Examining topographical, physical and soil characteristics of farmland to determine its most effective use and identify nutrient deficiencies
• Assisting in developing new methods of planting, fertilising, harvesting and processing crops to achieve optimum land usage
• Identifying pathogenic micro-organisms and insects, parasites, fungi and weeds harmful to crops and livestock, and assisting in devising methods of control
• Analysing produce to set and maintain standards of quality
• Inspecting livestock to gauge the effectiveness of feed formulae
• Assisting in controlled breeding experiments to develop improved crop and livestock strains
• Arranging the supply of drugs, vaccines and other chemicals to Farmers and Farm Managers, and giving advice on their use
• Collecting and collating data for research
• Planning slaughtering, harvesting and other aspects of production processes
• May advise producers on farming techniques and management

Key values of workers in Agricultural Technicians

• Support

  Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

• Working Conditions

  Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

• Independence

  Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

• Achievement

  Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

• Recognition

  Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Top skills required for workers in Agricultural Technicians

• Active Listening

  Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

• Writing

  Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

• Critical Thinking

  Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

• Complex Problem Solving

  Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

• Mathematics

  Using mathematics to solve problems.