Regardless of your level of education and prior experience, it is likely that you will qualify for one of many agriculture jobs available in your area. Choosing the right job for you starts with determining your long-term goals and assessing your skills, education, and experience. Some agriculture jobs will not require you to have any specific level of education; equipment operators, for example, will generally need a valid driver's license and be able to earn a commercial driver's license (CDL). No specific level of education is necessary for this position, but having a high school diploma or equivalent qualification is usually preferred.
For other agriculture jobs, you may need to hold a college degree. You can earn a degree in agriculture, biology, environmental studies, or other subjects that are relevant to agricultural applications. Such positions generally pay more, though they can be more competitive during the application process and you will likely need to gain some agriculture experience before you can be considered for these agriculture jobs. While you are in college, you may be able to take part in an internship program that will give you valuable work experience for boosting your resume and becoming a more valuable job candidate.
It is a good idea to do some research into the various agriculture jobs available to get a sense of which ones appeal most to you. If, for example, you have a head for business, you can get into agribusiness, which focuses more on the administrative end of running an agricultural business. You can work your way into the agriscience field, or you can become an animal inspector. If you have a passion for animals and an interest in veterinary science, you can become a veterinarian who works with animals in need of medical attention, or you can even become an animal breeder.
One of the best ways to determine which agriculture jobs will fit your interests and skill set best is to visit a working farm and talk to the current employees. This will give you a general sense of what some agriculture jobs entail. You may also be able to talk to veterinarians or other professionals who do not necessarily work in a farm setting. It is also advisable to discuss options with your high school guidance counselor or your college academic advisor, as these people may have some knowledge in these areas or be able to make contact with people who can lend you some advice.
