Career opportunities
Why work on the land?
Agriculture and Horticulture have the most varied range of fulfilling job opportunities, in one of the country’s biggest industries, for a wide range of abilities, skills and interests. Careers are open to candidates with qualifications at every level from apprenticeship to higher degrees. Training is widely available on-farm, at county colleges and universities throughout Britain. Watch ‘Amazing Careers in Agriculture’ on our videos page.
What careers are available on farms?
- On the farm
For those looking for a career working outdoors, farming needs technicians: to operate sophisticated technology and machinery, such as tractors, harvesters, milking parlours, sprayers and drones; to manage valuable livestock, oversee grazing, nutrition, breeding and ensure good animal health and high welfare. These are all practical jobs, calling for practical skills, technical knowledge, dedication and dependability. Watch 'Careers in Agriculture - Technology' on our videos page. - Managing the farm business
At management level, farms need foremen and managers to supervise staff and make decisions on cultivations, weed and pest control, cropping plans or animal breeding and marketing. In addition to more advanced technical knowledge and practical skills, these posts require good leadership skills together with the ability to take responsibility and make sound decisions. Watch 'Careers in Agriculture - Management' on our videos page. - Agri-professions
A farm can need the services of a contractor, advisor or consultant, such as agronomist, veterinary surgeon, land agent, plant breeder, geneticist, soil scientist, trials officer, pathologist, engineer, conservationist, ecologist, computer specialist, merchant or marketeer. Watch 'Careers in Agriculture - Science' on our videos page. Other careers with links to the land-based industries include accountancy, finance, insurance and journalism. For experienced candidates, with the ability to communicate and inspire others, there are opportunities in training, teaching and lecturing about agriculture. Most of these careers require qualifications to bachelor, masters or doctorate level. - Delivering public benefit
Farming is not just about food production. Farmers are land and countryside managers and increasingly need expertise in conservation and wildlife management. New career opportunities are being created by government policy on managing the countryside for the good of the wider community and delivering benefits through emissions reduction, carbon capture and biodiversity enhancement in a sustainable, productive countryside.
Where to find more information on countryside careers
The many careers that food production and land management have to offer, the education and the experience needed to succeed in them can be found by searching on-line. Begin by viewing the experience of young people working in the industry on the Trust’s video page.
Students from low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds might qualify for financial support towards training and tuition fees. Charities providing grant support to students can be found by visiting www.afcp.org.uk.