Agricultural Consultant - Career Advice - Environments

Agricultural Consultants advise farmers, agricultural businesses, rural industries and government on the production, processing and distribution of farm products. FutureGrowthModerate They may specialise in areas such as techniques for increased productivity, water use, farm economics or land management. They develop procedures and techniques for solving agricultural problems and improving farm production in areas such as feeding programs, soil improvement and animal husbandry. They may also assist farmers in business analysis, the arrangement of sales, act as a mediator or broker, or run farms for absentee owners.

ANZSCO ID: 234111

Specialisations: Agricultural Extension Officer, Landcare Officer,

Alternative names: Agricultural Adviser,

Knowledge, skills and attributes

strong analytical skills
an interest in science and the environment
able to make accurate observations
the ability to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems
good oral and written communication skills
good organisational skills
good teamwork skills.

Agricultural Consultant
(Source: University of Western Australia)

Duties and Tasks

Collects and analyses data and samples of produce, fertiliser, animal feed, soil, water and other factors affecting production.
Advises farmers and farm managers on techniques for improving the production of crops and livestock, and alternative agricultural options - diversified agricultural options
Advises farmers on issues such as livestock and crop disease, control of pests and weeds, soil improvement, animal husbandry and feeding programmes.
Advises on environmental factors affecting commercial crop yield, breeding programs and pasture growth
Analyses the impact of cultivation techniques, soil nutrients, insects and plant diseases on livestock and crop production
Creates and implements appropriate management action plans to cope with the impact of natural disasters such as fires, floods and droughts, or soil erosion, insect pests and diseases

Working conditions

As an agricultural adviser, you would usually work a standard number of hours per week. If you were self-employed, you might work hours to suit both you and your clients. Agricultural consultants divide their time between being out on the road consulting with farmers, conducting field research, and writing up reports in their offices. They may work in a diverse range of agricultural specialisations such as vegetable, wheat, canola or dairy farming. Their hours of work can vary considerably, depending on the type of work being carried out.

Agricultural advisers work for government bodies, specialist consultancies, or as self-employed consultants. You would work in an office analysing and writing reports, with site visits to processing plants, farms and rural business operations. You may be required to travel nationally, and perhaps also internationally.

Tools and technologies

Agricultural consultants use computers to research, keep records and prepare reports. They need to understand the elements of business planning, financial reports and be familiar with farm management and business software. They need to be experienced in techniques for improving the production of crops or livestock related to their area of specialisation.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You usually need a bachelor degree in agribusiness or agricultural science or another related field to work as an Agricultural Consultant. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your senior secondary school certificate or equivalent. English, biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics and agricultural science would be appropriate subjects to study prior to university. In some states, training may also be available through Vocational Education and Training (VET).

Graduates of agricultural science or a related discipline may apply to become members of Ag Institute Australia.

Employment Opportunities

Employment of agricultural scientists and advisers is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations.

The global increase in population, biosecurity concerns, the growing demand for natural resources particularly water, as well as changes in climate and weather patterns, and additional demand for new food products, will lead companies to continue to look for improvements in agricultural efficiency and sustainability.

Agricultural advisers will be well positioned to assist farmers and agricultural companies looking for efficiencies in production and business management.