The knowledge of agricultural production, plant and soil dynamics, irrigation design, fertilizer/pesticide management, plant physiology, and genetics gained from a major in Crop Production in the Agronomy concentration forms a solid foundation for many careers. Graduates in this concentration might pursue careers in small- and large-scale farm operation, organic farming, community garden development and management, research, and environmental or development consulting.
Potential Career Areas:
- Farming
- Land management
- Food production
- Farm management
- Agricultural engineering
- Soil conservation
- Consulting
- Research
- Education
- Manufacturing
Sample Employers:
- Self-employment (consultant)
- Farms and ranches
- Government agencies (national and state)
- Consulting firms
- Universities
- Agricultural research stations
- Commercial labs
- Seed companies
- Food production companies
- Coal/oil companies
- Real estate/development firms
- Agricultural manufacturers
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Soil Conservationist
|
$36,000 - $59,300
|
|
Soil Conservation Technicians
|
$22,540 - $32,000
|
|
Soil Scientist
|
$34,400 - $57,300
|
|
Plant Scientist
|
$34,400 - $57,300
|
|
Farmer
|
$19,920 - $33,550
|
|
Farm Manager
|
$39,000 - $49,000
|
|
Farm Management Advisor
|
$42,000 - $52,000
|
|
Farm Crop Production Technicians
|
$17,960 - $33,990
|
|
Botanist
|
$34,128 - $58,390
|
|
Range Manager
|
$36,000 - $59,300
|
|
Agricultural Scientist
|
$33,790 - $59,520
|
|
Horticultural Technicians
|
$16,240 - $24,931
|
|
Agricultural Consultant
|
$27,431 - $41,563
|
|
Agricultural Inspector
|
$24,000 - $41,700
|
|
Range Technician
|
$27,000 - $31,000
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).