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Agricultural Engineers

  • Bright Outlook
  • Rapid Growth

Apply knowledge of engineering technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water conservation, and processing of agricultural products.

What you’d do

  • Prepare reports, sketches, working drawings, specifications, proposals, and budgets for proposed sites or systems.
  • Visit sites to observe environmental problems, to consult with contractors, or to monitor construction activities.
  • Meet with clients, such as district or regional councils, farmers, and developers, to discuss their needs.
  • Discuss plans with clients, contractors, consultants, and other engineers so that they can be evaluated and necessary changes made.
  • Test agricultural machinery and equipment to ensure adequate performance.
  • Plan and direct construction of rural electric-power distribution systems, and irrigation, drainage, and flood control systems for soil and water conservation.
  • Provide advice on water quality and issues related to pollution management, river control, and ground and surface water resources.
  • Design structures for crop storage, animal shelter and loading, and animal and crop processing, and supervise their construction.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
  • Writing
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking

How to get there

Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

Also called

  • Agricultural Engineer
  • Engineer
  • Project Engineer
  • Research Agricultural Engineer
  • Agricultural Systems Specialist
  • Conservation Engineer

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