Work with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments. Conduct tests and experiments to improve yield and quality of crops or to increase the resistance of plants and animals to disease or insects.
SOC: 19-4012.00
Common Job Titles
Agricultural Research Technician (Agricultural Research Tech)
Agricultural Technician (Agricultural Tech)
Agriculture Assistant
Seed Analyst
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate agricultural equipment including tractors, harvesters, and crop sprayers in field and laboratory settings to support plant and animal research activities.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze crop samples, animal specimens, and experimental data using laboratory equipment and statistical methods to support agricultural research.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply biological and chemical principles to crop improvement and disease resistance experiments under supervision of agricultural scientists.
Proficient
KnowledgeExplain experimental procedures, research findings, and agricultural techniques to interdisciplinary team members and external stakeholders.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize experimental schedules, field trials, and laboratory activities coordinating multiple research projects simultaneously within time-sensitive agricultural cycles.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate crop yield quality and animal breeding outcomes against established agricultural standards and research objectives.
Proficient
Hands-onCalibrate laboratory equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, and spectrometers following standardized protocols to ensure accurate experimental results.
Developing
Hands-onExecute specimen collection from crops and animals using proper handling techniques and maintaining sample integrity for laboratory analysis.
Developing
Hands-onPerform mechanical maintenance and repairs on agricultural equipment and laboratory instruments independently to minimize downtime in research operations.
Developing
KnowledgeApply Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and GPS technologies to track field trial locations, map crop patterns, and manage spatial agricultural data.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in collaborative research teams supporting scientific investigations while maintaining safety protocols and ethical animal handling practices.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Agricultural Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,340
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $32,860. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,480. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,790. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,370. 90th percentile: U.S. $69,010. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$32,860
10% of workers earn the following or more
$69,010
Workers on average earn
$49,680
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Food Production3.6/5
Biology3.5/5
Chemistry3.4/5
Mechanical3.4/5
Mathematics3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
